Ignition Switch Stalling
yakko
07-22-2011, 06:00 AM
2002 Buick Regal LS
I've begun having some symptoms of a bad ignition switch harness (cruise control going crazy, temperature controls/fans working off and on) and that's not a big deal. I've had these before, replaced the harness and all was good. I was planning on getting one sometime in the future when money was more abundant. Until then, I'd just suffer a little.
But now my car has decided to start stalling while driving or sometimes at a stop. No sputtering, no bouncing or jerking, just dies. Pop it in neutral or park and starts right back up. My question is, could this stalling be a symptom of a bad ignition switch harness also? It makes sense to me that it could be, but wanted some verification from people smarter than I because before I go and spend more money than I have on a part that may not be the issue, I'd like to know.
Thank you guys, you're the best.
I've begun having some symptoms of a bad ignition switch harness (cruise control going crazy, temperature controls/fans working off and on) and that's not a big deal. I've had these before, replaced the harness and all was good. I was planning on getting one sometime in the future when money was more abundant. Until then, I'd just suffer a little.
But now my car has decided to start stalling while driving or sometimes at a stop. No sputtering, no bouncing or jerking, just dies. Pop it in neutral or park and starts right back up. My question is, could this stalling be a symptom of a bad ignition switch harness also? It makes sense to me that it could be, but wanted some verification from people smarter than I because before I go and spend more money than I have on a part that may not be the issue, I'd like to know.
Thank you guys, you're the best.
GTP Dad
07-22-2011, 11:59 AM
It is very possible that the ignition switch could be grounding out due to movement but I would expect it to do it more when the car is moving and hitting bumps causing a vibration rather than at a stop sign or light. Try unplugging the MAF sensor on the throttle body and see if the issue continues. If that does not help you may be seeing the first signs of a bad crank position sensor. If the problem stops when you unplug the MAF sensor you will need to replace it with a new one. Stay away from Cardone rebuilt sensors at they can have issues. If the issue continues look at the CPS as your next step.
Automotive Network, Inc., Copyright ©2025
