1997 Lumina won't Start

[MultiLuminaowner]

My son has a 97 Lumina that won't start. When turned to the start position, the headlights go off but there is nothing. No sounds, no click, nothing! After trying to wiggle key, putting in neutral, turning the steering wheel, nothing! I let it set for 10 minutes and then it started. Drove it shut it off started it pulled in to garage and the next morning he went to go to work and nothing??? Anyone have a suggestion before I call mechanic?

[maxwedge]

Clean and tighten the battery cables.

[MultiLuminaowner]

maxxwedge,

The battery is not the problem. The lights come on and everything works. When turned to start on the ignition, the lights go out as normal but then there is silence. After letting it sit and trying again, it will start. Like I stated earlier, my son tried to start the car to go to work at around 8:00 am and nothing, I went out at 12:00 and it started up, I drove it to help at a local triathlon and had no problems.
Could it be the pass lock system on the key itself that is causing the problem??

[dennisinmo]

It could still be the battery connections like maxxwedge said. A lose, dirty connection will still let a small amount of current through the connections to turn on the lights, etc but not enough for the starter. Maybe a lose connection at the starter or starter relay. Don't know if the newer cars have the neutral switch in series with the starter. That used to make intermittent problems. Jiggle the gear shift while the key is in the start position and see if it starts.
Good luck.

[maxwedge]

Security system, if an issue, the lite on the dash would not go off, take the stated advice to begin the diagnostic process.

[MultiLuminaowner]

Thank You maxwedge for your input!

[MultiLuminaowner]

Thank You dennisinmo for your input!!!

[bsr2002]

My security light has come on to and I too am having this problem. Also to note when the security light was on I noticed a red light below it that says VOLTS.

I will check the battery cables.