98 Monte Z34 - may/may not start

[phylsarc]

Sometimes my Monte just won't start. It has power, radio & lights work. But nothing to the starter. Starter has been replaced. Sometimes after about 10 minutes it will magically change it mind and decide to start for no apparent reason. Don't know if it is related but sometimes when driving I notice the 'security' light come on, then go back out after a while. Last time this happened we had to jump the starter to get it going again. HELP! I am afraid to take it to the shop because I don't think they will fix it if they can't recreate the issue.

[CEO Wrench]

Originally Posted by phylsarc

Sometimes my Monte just won't start. It has power, radio & lights work. But nothing to the starter. Starter has been replaced. Sometimes after about 10 minutes it will magically change it mind and decide to start for no apparent reason. Don't know if it is related but sometimes when driving I notice the 'security' light come on, then go back out after a while. Last time this happened we had to jump the starter to get it going again. HELP! I am afraid to take it to the shop because I don't think they will fix it if they can't recreate the issue.

A few things to check: When you turn the ignition switch to "start", does anything else change electrically? Do the interior lights dim (not normal), or the radio go out (normal)? Without being able to see it myself, I would venture a guess that the switch itself is the problem. It is located on the top of the steering column under the dash. You may be able to get a used one cheap from a salvage yard to try yourself, or else have a mechanically-inclined friend do it for you. If you're a do-it-yourselfer, you can go to Barnes & Noble and look up the electrical schematic (Chilton's Repair Guide), noting which color wires go to the starter realy, and then try jumpering the starter relay contacts to see if you get the correct response that way. Hope this helps!

[jag-317]

I'll bet that your car will be flashing the security light when it is not starting. GM vats is a very simple anti-theft system. In your key, there is a little black resistor. Sometimes these keys don't always make a proper connection. You can either by-pass the resistor or get a new key cut. I am a licenced auto-electrict tech, and I must by-pass these for remote starts. I was tired of my 96 mc not starting, so I measured the key with a multi meter and soldered it into the ign harness. This way there is no more fluxuating.

[raycorri]

Here is the most simple VATS fix.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/LOCKS...QQcmdZViewItem

Maybe call the number listed or e-mail the seller and see if you can just purchase the one that matches your key resistance. OR Here are directions on doing it another way.

How to bypass the VATS (PASSKey II) system in a late model GM vehicle
http://www.likeabigdog.com/column/VATS.htm

http://stores.ebay.com/Audio-Allies and search for Directed 652T GM VATS Overide Kit

Ray

[ponchonutty]

I'd do the 2nd method. About $2 at radioshack and about an hour and you'll have it fixed. Or, you can get a new ignition switch for $175 from the dealer to repair it.

[Ross_B]

Originally Posted by phylsarc

Sometimes my Monte just won't start. It has power, radio & lights work. But nothing to the starter. Starter has been replaced. Sometimes after about 10 minutes it will magically change it mind and decide to start for no apparent reason. Don't know if it is related but sometimes when driving I notice the 'security' light come on, then go back out after a while. Last time this happened we had to jump the starter to get it going again. HELP! I am afraid to take it to the shop because I don't think they will fix it if they can't recreate the issue.

hey im new on this site, my 01 mc ss has the same exact problem, any ideas on what it is? im like you i cant depend on it to start when i go out. i really need to fix it cuz someone is susposed to buy it soon!!!

[ponchonutty]

Originally Posted by Ross_B

hey im new on this site, my 01 mc ss has the same exact problem, any ideas on what it is? im like you i cant depend on it to start when i go out. i really need to fix it cuz someone is susposed to buy it soon!!!

Change out the decoder that's inside the ignition switch. Check your dealer for the part number. I am not sure on the Monte's but I think you need to pull the wheel off to get to what you need.