97 Grand Prix GT Headlights & Heater shutting off - clicking noise

I have a 97 Pontiac Grand Prix GT 3.8 L V6 and it will make a single clicking noise around the steering column and then the headlights and the heater will shut off for random amounts of time and then it will click again and they come back on. It seems to be gradually getting worse. This is my extra car and I don't drive it very often so it sits a lot. I'm not sure if this could be related to the ignition switch or possibly something else. Any ideas?

Welcome to AF.

You got it. Ignition switch. Contacts are carboned up. You can either remove the switch and clean the contacts or replace the complete ignition switch and harness assembly.

Thanks for the quick reply. I had a feeling that might be what was wrong. I had an 01 Grand Am that had a similar issue only it was causing the turn signals to act up. I'll try cleaning the contacts first and go from there. Thanks a bunch!

The problem is classic especially when they get old. Here is a tech procedure at our Tips & Maintenance section to get the switch removed. The contacts are in the black module as shown in the pic and not part of the key cylinder. Good luck.

Click here (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=653340)

Thanks again, these directions are great! I appreciate your help.

Help, I'm up to the part where I release the key cylinder but when I press the allen wrench into the small hole on the back of the cylinder housing, the key cylinder is not releasing. Should it easily release?

when I turn turn my steering wheel , or move the tilt column my DIC gets all screwy and my blower stops , wonder of its related

HI all,

I'm having the same issue, I replaced the Blower motor resister thinking it was that but it was not.

I am not moving on to the ignition switch. My question is which one to buy.

Autozone carries two of them, one is listed "with console" and one "without console"

I drive a 98 GTP, which one do I need?



Duralast / Ignition Switch LS927
Application:
With console


Duralast / Ignition Switch LS950
Application:
Without console

HI all,

I'm having the same issue, I replaced the Blower motor resister thinking it was that but it was not.

I am not moving on to the ignition switch. My question is which one to buy.

Autozone carries two of them, one is listed "with console" and one "without console"

I drive a 98 GTP, which one do I need?



Duralast / Ignition Switch LS927
Application:
With console


Duralast / Ignition Switch LS950
Application:
Without console


Sorry but please check the date and do not resurrect old threads. Best to start a new one addressing your question or issue. This thread is closed.

In the meantime, you will need the one with console since you have a center console with floor shift and not a column shift.