Odd problem - Dash lights up like a Christmas tree

[JR_VETTE]

I have a 1997 GMC Jimmy that is having a sporatic problem that I am about to throw in the towel and let the dealer take a look at it, but before I did that, I wanted to see if anybody here had any thoughts.

From time to time (Sometimes daily, at least once a week), the anti-lock light and check engine lights come on. When that happens the A/C and windows cease to function. I saw in one of the threads here that there is a common problem with the ignition switches on the Jimmys. Does this sounds like that could be the problem? Sometimes it will fix itself while driving, sometimes it won't. Regardless, turning it off, and restarting it almost always cures it.

The only code that came up when I had it scanned was a bad O2 sensor which I have replaced. I have not had a chance to take it back down to get it scanned again, but I feel 99% sure I replaced the correct sensor. Also, would a bad 02 sensor cause all these problems?

Thanks!

[JimmySLS]

I would have to say it sounds like ignition switch.And no a bad O2 sensor will not cause these problems..You are ok there..Chances are ignition switch is going bad...Good Luck

[rruhge]

Did you figure it out yet? I've got the same same problem on my car. Spent almost $2000 on it at the garage replacing lots of parts. It still lights up like a christmas tree while driving and the blower for the A/C and heater is intermittent.

What is it?

[JR_VETTE]

Originally Posted by rruhge

Did you figure it out yet? I've got the same same problem on my car. Spent almost $2000 on it at the garage replacing lots of parts. It still lights up like a christmas tree while driving and the blower for the A/C and heater is intermittent.

What is it?

It did turn out to be the ignition switch. I banged hard on the switch one day while it was running, and as soon as I hit it, everything came on. I could reproduce it almost every time.

I let the dealer replace the switch. I can't remember exactly how much it cost, but it wasn't cheap.

Try banging the key real hard while it's running. Is yours ALWAYS messing up, or is it intermittent? Mine was intermittent.

[rruhge]

It is intermitent and I've been quoted $250 for part and labor.
I guess I'll just replace it.