1995 Chevy Lumina Won't Start

[ChicagoCyberfox]

A couple times recently, it wouldn't start at first, but then started. I drove the car all day Friday and parked it in front of my house. Didn't start Friday night or all through the weekend. It won't crank at all, just a faint whine when turning the key. I have lights. Is it the starter, ignition fuse, ignition module, what? I have to decide whether or not to fix it or junk it. Thanks!

[gw84]

welcome to AF!! If the whine comes from the rear of the vehicle, I think what you're hearing is probably the fuel pump (there's nothing wrong with that). As for not starting, I would lean towards battery or alternator. BTW, please state engine size.

[ChicagoCyberfox]

It's a 3.1. Can it be the battery if you have lights(interior, exterior) and car alarm still works etc...

[tblake]

does your key have a chip in it? Is the "security" Light lit? Maybe try starting with a different key.

This could be a battery connection problem. Turn on your lights and watch the brightness as your crank your motor? Do they completly die? Check the battery/starter terminals for corrosion.

[ChicagoCyberfox]

Has a chip in it, no other key. Motor doesn't crank. No loose connections or corrosion

[gw84]

find a nearby mechanic and have him check it over.

[bstrom1953]

My 95 did the exact same thing. If you don't have a different key, try building up the contacts on the key with a thing film of solder on both sides. Worked for me! After a few years the solder wore down. I built it back up and it's still working. Good luck.

[ChicagoCyberfox]

Well, the mechanic said it was the anti theft device and resistance. So now I had the car towed to the locksmith who replaced my key recently. He argued with me that the car has an after factory alarm. The mechanic, said "No,that's a factory alarm on the dash." All I know is this locksmith is costing me extra money because it cost me $80 for the mechanic and $65 for an AAA membership to save money on towing. I have to figure out how to recoup that money. The locksmith is bonded...

[ChicagoCyberfox]

Originally Posted by bstrom1953

My 95 did the exact same thing. If you don't have a different key, try building up the contacts on the key with a thing film of solder on both sides. Worked for me! After a few years the solder wore down. I built it back up and it's still working. Good luck.

Thank you, I'll keep that in mind for the future.

[mab32780]

Just went through all this. Car would not crank but everything else was fine. I replaced the ignition lock cylinder on the steering column and that cured all ills.