Alero Starting Solution

I have had problems for over a year with starting my 2002 Alero & have had it towed numerous times, only to be told later that it started fine for the mechanic.

I searched on-line and saw that this was a common problem & noted nearly 20 different solutions proposed. Yet, none of them appeared to be successful, and--like many other owners--I was ready to sell the car.

Well, I have finally solved the mystery & you will be amazed at how simple (and inexpensive!) the solution turns out to be.

Simply detach your car key from all other keys. That's it! For some reason, having additional keys attached somehow interferes with ignition.

This also explains why the damn car would always start for the mechanics--I only left them the single key! (I'd begun to think that the towing process somehow fixed the problem...)

So, give it a try! I sincerely hope that this trick works for all you frustrated Alero owners out there--
Michael

I am wondering... what issues were you having? Did the engine turn but not start? I'm going to give this a try anyway.

I have had problems for over a year with starting my 2002 Alero & have had it towed numerous times, only to be told later that it started fine for the mechanic.

I searched on-line and saw that this was a common problem & noted nearly 20 different solutions proposed. Yet, none of them appeared to be successful, and--like many other owners--I was ready to sell the car.

Well, I have finally solved the mystery & you will be amazed at how simple (and inexpensive!) the solution turns out to be.

Simply detach your car key from all other keys. That's it! For some reason, having additional keys attached somehow interferes with ignition.

This also explains why the damn car would always start for the mechanics--I only left them the single key! (I'd begun to think that the towing process somehow fixed the problem...)

So, give it a try! I sincerely hope that this trick works for all you frustrated Alero owners out there--
Michael

Yes--the engine would turn but not start.

For the past month, this solution (use of single key) worked without a hitch. In the past couple of days, however, I've begun to have problems again, although never been delayed more than a few minutes. I also had the car stall while I was driving--a new and worrysome development.

Michael

Check out this thread it might be helpful.www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=454520

Wieght on the key chain has been discussed before in the N body sections, including Malibu's. GM even has a TSB on the subject.

Most likly a lock cylinder/ignition switch problem getting ready to arise.

Good Luck and Welcome to AF newbies !

ps- I'd use caution when disabling your passlock system.

I tried removing all keys - no help. At first I thought I had a passlock issue, but my security light does not flash. Basically when my car does not start the only lights that are on are the Oil, Battery and Security lights. The security light remains solid - it does not flash. If I leave the key in the ON position for approx 1 minute the Service Engine Soon light comes on and I am able to start it. Very strange. I just had the fuel filter/pump replaced last week - didn't help.

I also realised that the only time I have a problem is mid-day. And this issue only started when the weather warmed up (RI). The car starts without fail at night and early in the morning. Any other time I have to leave the key in the ON position and hope the engine light comes on. Sometimes it still has trouble starting but eventually I get it.

Anyone have a solution for hot weather no-start? I think I narrowed it down to the PCM, fuel relay or ignition switch. Going back to my mechanic tonight to discuss these.

I have also had issues with dash lights recently... Low Tire Pressure, Trac Off, Cruise and Change Oil Lights all come on randomly. Also my driver side window stopped working and the fan switch only works on high - hoping I can fix these myself when I have some money.

(2002 Alero GLS V6)


Wieght on the key chain has been discussed before in the N body sections, including Malibu's. GM even has a TSB on the subject.

Most likly a lock cylinder/ignition switch problem getting ready to arise.

Good Luck and Welcome to AF newbies !

ps- I'd use caution when disabling your passlock system.

That's interesting--I have also had problems with driver's side window & dashboard lights remaining on.

I agree that the ignition problem seems to happen primarily with hotter temperatures.

NO START SOLUTION: 2000 Alero, 2.4L, turns over but doesn't start, security light turns on then off then after a few seconds light turn back on SOLID, SOLUTION: repaired corroded terminals on BCM (located on passengers side under the dashboard). Humidity from blower or other source leaked onto terminals and coroded them away. They symptoms actually started months ahead of time. First the door locks stoped working, then the door chimes and lights, finaly the car failed to start. It would turn and run for about a second and then die out. The security light would remain on solid. The 10 min reset doesn't work in this case.

I think you are right on the money.....my problem just didn't fit the pass lock symptoms,Pass the word