Unknown driver message and will not start

2003 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
205,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
In my truck has unknown driver and won’t start. The key lock cylinder was faulty, and I changed that. I held the positive and negative battery terminals together for 30 seconds went in truck and driver 1 was on information screen. Turned truck off and 45 minutes later it went back to unknown driver. My next step was I changed ignition switch because I didn’t know if key cylinder messed it up. Again, held positive and negative battery together for 30 seconds got in truck had driver 1 but would not start but I assume I need to do key relearn. I waited a hour turned on key and it was back to unknown driver. In addition, when I turnkey off the information screen sometimes has letters and numbers that make no sense. Also, I have a battery shut off switch have used it for years and never a problem. My key fob stopped working long time ago but truck always started and ran good. I also hooked a wire on pin 87 and touched battery and truck turned over but would not start.
Oct 25, 2021 at 12:52 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

If you turn the key on to the run position and let it set for approximately 10 minutes, does the anti-theft turn off? If so, will it then start?

Also, I did some research on this indicator. I was able to find a technical service bulletin related to it. Take a look at the attachments below and let me know if they help.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Oct 25, 2021 at 1:44 PM
Avatar
HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
Okay, I’ll try that and let you know.
Oct 25, 2021 at 4:39 PM
Avatar
HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
I checked all fuses the only thing was some trailer lights, and my head lights fuse it’s been like that a long time. But I was finally able to pull a code p1518. What do you think? Could it be tac module or BCM?

Thanks
Oct 25, 2021 at 10:37 PM
Avatar
HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
Also, it sometimes goes to driver 1 then 2 unknown driver.
Oct 26, 2021 at 12:49 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The TAC could be bad, there could be a wiring/power issue, or even a serial data bus issue.

Take a look through the attached diagnostics. See if you are comfortable performing them.

Let me know,

Joe

See pics below.
Oct 26, 2021 at 10:32 AM
Avatar
EARL JACKSON
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I took my vehicle to the Chevrolet dealership. They said bad ignition switch. Had to order new ignition switch and ordered to new keys. Had to order a brand-new cluster panel. Ignition switch and two keys $678.00. Brand new cluster panel $876.00. $1,400.00 with labor.
Aug 3, 2022 at 7:29 AM
Avatar
HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
Thanks, I’ll try that.
Aug 3, 2022 at 7:38 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.