2008 Malibu NO CRANK NO START NO SECURITY LIGHT

When turning the ignition key to ON position, instrument panel lights and indicators all turn on for a few seconds then turn off with the oil, brake, battery and one or two more indicators remaining on until the engine is started. This is the power on self tests conducted every time ignition is turned on. Among the indicators is the factory Passlock security indicator, (yellow engine with large padlock?). This turns on then turns off under normal conditions. It may flash repeatedly or blink to indicate security conditions. Blink when armed after all doors are locked and security is enabled. Flashing indicates security detected a theft attempt, disables fuel and ignition to prevent starting but may not disable the starter; flashing indicator but allows the starter to crank the engine but without fuel and spark enabled, allows starter operation only without allowing the engine to fire up.

If you can see security cycle on and off before starting, Passlock is not active, disabling starting. A no crank, no start (zero starter noises) and security flashing may be an incorrect theft attempt detected and turned enabled Passlock security to disable fuel and spark circuits while flashing the security indicator. If this is what you see, leave ignition ON for 10 minutes until security resets and turns off the security indicator. Turn off ignition and try starting again. However, if security doesn't flash quickly while starting, this may be a dead, worn out battery and/or starter problem. A portable battery booster or another vehicle with jumper cables may be needed to provide a boost for starting.

I had a '03 GM Saturn with Passlock with service manuals. Manuals described factory security and each mode the security indicates from flashes or blinks. I think your '08 Malibu with Passlock 3 may have the same circuitry and flashing/blinking sequences.