AutoCodes – Pontiac – P1679 Pontiac

P1679 Pontiac Code - Immobilizer Environment Identification Failed

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM), the Powertrain Interface Module (PIM), and the Body Control Module (BCM) are integral part of the vehicle theft deterrent system. Common causes include Deterrent key not programmed to vheicle, Faulty Deterrent key, Fualty ignition switch. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1679 Pontiac indicates Immobilizer Environment Identification Failed.
Common causes: Common causes include Deterrent key not programmed to vheicle, Faulty Deterrent key, Fualty ignition switch.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,112

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 08, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1679 Pontiac Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM), the Powertrain Interface Module (PIM), and the Body Control Module (BCM) are integral part of the vehicle theft deterrent system. The theft deterrent system authenticates the security code programmed into each of these modules to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. This authentication process includes the following steps:
1.When the ignition is turned ON or the door is unlocked by remote key the BCM and the key exchange security data to verify the correct key is used.
2.Once the correct key has been confirmed and the ignition is turned ON, the PIM and BCM exchange data to confirm the correct BCM and PIM is being used.
3.Once the correct key, BCM, and PIM is confirmed, the PIM and ECM exchange data to allow the vehicle to start.
4.The data exchange processes conducted use various encrypted data exchanges between each of the devices.

OBDII Code P1679 Pontiac - Immobilizer Environment Identification Failed - AutoCodes.com — P1679 Pontiac Code - Immobilizer Environment Identification Failed

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1679 Pontiac?

Deterrent key not programmed to vheicle
Faulty Deterrent key
Fualty ignition switch
Poor electrical connection for Deterrent circuit components

How to Fix the DTC P1679 Pontiac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1679 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1679 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1679 mean for a Pontiac?

P1679 indicates an issue where the immobilizer system cannot properly identify the environment, often due to a communication error between the immobilizer and the engine control module (ECM).

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1679 in a Pontiac?

Symptoms include the engine not starting, a flashing or lit security light on the dashboard, and potential communication errors visible through a diagnostic scan.

3. What causes the P1679 code to appear in a Pontiac?

Common causes include a faulty immobilizer control module, damaged wiring or connectors in the immobilizer system, a failing ECM, or an issue with the key transponder.

4. Can a weak car battery trigger the P1679 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage fluctuations that disrupt the immobilizerâ€™s operation, potentially triggering this code.

5. How is the P1679 code diagnosed on a Pontiac?

A technician will use a diagnostic scanner to read the code, inspect the wiring and connectors in the immobilizer system, check the key transponder, and test communication between the ECM and immobilizer module.

6. Can I clear the P1679 code without fixing the issue?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove it, but if the underlying problem isnâ€™t resolved, the code will reappear, and the vehicle might still refuse to start.

7. How can I fix the P1679 code on my Pontiac?

Repairs may include reprogramming or replacing the key, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or replacing a faulty ECM or immobilizer control module.

8. Is the P1679 code specific to certain Pontiac models?

While it can occur in various Pontiac models equipped with immobilizer systems, the exact symptoms and solutions may differ slightly depending on the model and year.

9. Can a damaged key cause the P1679 code?

Yes, if the key's transponder is damaged or not recognized by the immobilizer, it can lead to a failure in environment identification and trigger the code.

10. How much does it cost to fix a P1679 code on a Pontiac?

The repair cost can vary widely, ranging from $100 for key reprogramming to over $1,000 if major components like the ECM or immobilizer module need replacement.