1996 Olds Cutlass Supreme sometimes it starts, sometimes it doesn't??

[pretendingsanity]

This car only starts when it feels the need! It runs great, no missing or smoking, and sometimes it will start right up and go...but sometimes it is dead- not turning over at all (the lights all come on and the fuel pump sprays but the motor doesn't make a sound). We replaced the starter but that's not it. One day we thought it was fixed, it started 13 times in a row, I went to pull it out of the garage and nothing. CAN ANYONE HELP ME??

Also, if you know anything about the turn signals, when turning left I have to hold the turn signal handle down to just before it clicks, if it clicks the turn signal won't work but if you just hold it down enough it flashes and works perfectly. ( I think my car has a mind of its own)

Any help on either of these is greatly appreciated.

[niccaleb112602]

it sounds like the ignition switch

[GTP Dad]

Does your car have a security system? When it refuses to start is the security light turned on? If so try another factory key. As for the turn signals it sounds like the switch in the steering column is going bad and needs replaced. To get to it though you will need to pull the air bag and remove the wheel. If you have never removed an airbag take it to a mechanic to have the switch replaced.

[galoosh]

I had the same problems with my 94 ragtop - if your security light is coming on while you drive then you will need a new lock cylinder and keys as the passkey system is shot. Mine would start maybe 2 or 3 times, then nothing, then start as if nothing was wrong about an hour later. Cost me $280 and I haven't had any problems since.
You will also need a new turn signal switch which cost me $200. I just looked at another 94 ragtop with the same problem so it may be a common thing on these cars.
Hope this helps.

[repp33]

I had that same problem, turned out to be alarm related. I find if I unlock it and then wait a few seconds to open the door it then starts, I dunno do you have an alrm?

[pretendingsanity]

Originally Posted by repp33

I had that same problem, turned out to be alarm related. I find if I unlock it and then wait a few seconds to open the door it then starts, I dunno do you have an alrm?

No it doesn't have an alarm...I put a nuetral safety switch on it, still the same problem so that rules that out. We are going to get a new ignition switch and see if that is the problem, after that I will just get a match for the gas tank if it still act up!


<B>Thanks for all the reply's, I really appreciate everyone who has taken the time to try to help!</B>