'93 cavalier. ABS light comes on. Troubles Starting the vehicle

[cecile0918]

I have a '93 manual. 4 cyl. 2-door. that's about all I can really tell you off-hand, since I don't know much about cars.

About a week ago, my car started having troubles starting. I would have to keep my foot on the gas and hold it in the ignition position for several seconds before it would start. This usually occurred when I first used the car during the day, and would get better as the day progressed; however this was not always the case. Sometimes, the check engine light would come on. My roommate checked it out (he works on cars for a living... but I wouldn't call him an expert), and he said it seemed okay. When the car was re-started, the light turned off.

Yesterday my spark plugs were replaced... as it turned out, they were still the original ones. Good thing they were changed.

Before replacing the spark plugs, both the ABS and E-brake light came on, although the E-brake was not engaged. I turned the car off then back on, and this problem went away. After the spark plugs were replaced (yesterday), the ABS light came on. I turned off the car twice, and it went away. Later last night, the ABS light came on again while I was driving, and this time the car jerked a little. Unfortunately I was on my way to pick up a roommate. I pulled over, let the car sit a minute, then turned it on again. The light went off and the car acted fine--no jerking. Today the car was fine, with the exception of a slow start.

A friend recommened I try changing the battery. I also read a few forums that seem to recommend the same thing. As embarrassing as it is to admit, I did purchase the battery at Wal-mart b/c I was low on money at the time. So that also leads me to believe it could be the battery.

I however, pretty much know nothing about cars. If anyone could help me out, I'd really appreciate it. I'm not completely sure how this site works, but if someone could e-mail me at: [email protected] again, I would greatly appreciate the assistance! Thank you for helping out a "newbie".

[-Jayson-]

ur cars getting old and the miles are getting up, things like that are going to happen.

[cecile0918]

Originally Posted by -Jayson-

ur cars getting old and the miles are getting up, things like that are going to happen.

:-) Yes, unfortunately it is... but I also cannot really afford to purchase a new one. Do you know if there is a solution to the ABS problem? (other than getting a new vehicle)

[-Jayson-]

if your brakes still work, dont worry about the ABS unless its snowing or raining. . .

[carlos_colion]

What about the battery light? does it comes on?
Take the car to be checked of the battery and the alternator.
Check your brake fluid level and the brake lines.

[cecile0918]

Originally Posted by carlos_colion

What about the battery light? does it comes on?
Take the car to be checked of the battery and the alternator.
Check your brake fluid level and the brake lines.

Thank you for replying. The battery light came on once, but went away. I ended up going to AutoZone. They tested everything, and it was determined that I needed a new starter (as well as a serpentine belt). Since the starter was replaced, I have not had any problems with the ABS light, the car starting (obviously), or any other problems. I did take your advice and checked the brake fluid levels, and they were fine. Again, thank you for your help. (-:

[Imknotright]

Had the same problem. thought I had it fixed... eventually gave in & replaced the ignition switch. Easy & cheap. The contacts go bad inside the switch affecting the abs & brake light circuit.

[cecile0918]

Originally Posted by Imknotright

Had the same problem. thought I had it fixed... eventually gave in & replaced the ignition switch. Easy & cheap. The contacts go bad inside the switch affecting the abs & brake light circuit.

ah, that is good to know. Thank you very much!

[public]

I had the same problem Twice. Once the battery. When I went to test it the post fell out of the side - still bolted to the cable. The next time it was the starter. The solenoid came apart inside. Have not had the problem since then (about 3 years). Thank God for AAA+