Intermittant key problem

2002 Trans Am. Periodically, the ignition key does not work. It turns fine - but the starter does not engage. Come back a half an hour later - and it works. I suspect it has to do with the VATS that I have been reading about. I traded out the key with the spare, but it has the same problems - so it is probably not a problem with the coded key. Is it possible there is an intermittant problem with making proper contact? My son suggests shooting some WD-40 inside the ignition switch. Could that cause more problems?

What steps should I follow for diagnosing the problem - starting with the easiest steps?

Shooting WD-40 in there wont hurt it, but dont go crazy as it will make a mess if you spray half the can in there. What it sounds like is the security system. Either the computer is intermitantly not recognizing the security chip in the key or a seperate security computer...but I believe it is integrated in the main computer. Good luck.

i think 88-95 that i know of it was a seperate system and the had a problem with the wires going to the switch this is only if you can see the chip on yer key right near where the teeth start this could be yer problem but is also not easy to fix unless you know yer way around the colum