Menu

engine stalls and display reads " remove key for 10 seconds"

by Jennifer
(Martinez, GA)

I have a 1999 Corvette and recently the engine has stalled while in reverse and the display reads "remove key for 10 seconds and then restart". Is this a flaw in the ignition, electrical system, or security? Was it part of the recall for ignition problems?

Answer:
One or two problems can be in play here.
First old weak batteries can cause a voltage drop due to cranking amperage draw. Meaning while your trying to start your car the voltage drops below the minimum 12.5 for starting. This messes up the "K" relay in the security system which is part of the control column lock system. This relay cuts fuel to the engine as its perceiving an attempted theft.
Second the "K" Relay that is located near the control column lock is failing. The body control module monitors relay position and if the relay fails to switch over the BCM sets the pull key and wait message to attempt to correct the problem.

So moral of the story if you have a known good battery (get it tested for load or cranking output) replace the "K relay located driver side right knee bolster under steering wheel. Get the battery tested first! Most parts stores do it for free. Then change the relay if the battery is good.

Comments for engine stalls and display reads " remove key for 10 seconds"

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Jun 07, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Engine stalls
by: Jeff

You guys described my problem exactly except my K relay won't reset and has to be replaced. Is there a recall or is it a TSB?
Jul 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		This is a computer module RECALL
by: Anonymous

Chevy Corvette had a recall on the car computer module and this was exactly what it does.
Jul 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		This is a computer module RECALL
by: Anonymous

Chevy Corvette had a recall on the car computer module and this was exactly what it does.
Jul 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		10 seconds of bologna
by: Dan

I have a 1998 with the same issue.Its only every now and then that this happens.My mechanic seems to think that the ignition switch when turned to start the car looses some voltage and the computer doesn't synchronize with other computers in your car, that's when you have to remove the key for 10 seconds.I had the dreaded service column lock fixed earlier this year and now this. At least this issue doesn't leave you stranded where you sit.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to C5 Corvette Ask!.





















Enjoy this page? Please pay it forward. Here's how...

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.
Chris Trautman @ Corvette Assembly Plant 2019

About Us: Corvette Web Central | Owner Bio: Chris Trautman

Established in 2008 by Chris Trautman, Corvette Web Central quickly grew into one of the top leading Corvette enthusiast websites globally. 

"This website is a passion of mine, just as much as being a Corvette owner," says Chris.  He was frustrated trying to find information on the internet about Corvettes which was was not biased or influenced somehow. 

He has owned three Corvettes over the last twenty years and does not plan to stop owning one anytime soon.

Note: Some links on this page are part of our affiliate program and provide a small portion of proceeds to fund the administrative costs and to fund more product reviews.  We are not paid to perform the reviews or are we given any products for free.  

You might like these