many problems, probably one source

[dodge9fan]

Hi everyone. My wife's car is a 2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue 3.8 engine with 98365 miles. Problems are the cruise light comes on at random times, and seems to relate to the heater and a/c console. The fan only works on high, and at different speed settings, you see different lighting on the heater and a/c console. Setting to a different fan speed semms to affect whether the cruise light comes on or not. The a/c does not work, even when the fan works on high. The rear defroster also does not work. The headlights blink at times, they are set on automatic. And the security light has come on twice. At one point a few months ago, the car failed to start at all, but restarted on its own a few minutes later without any repairs or work being done. Any help with finding the source of these problems is appreciated.

[BNaylor]

2002 Intrigue with a 3.8? You should have the 3.5L engine. Last year with the 3800 as an option was 1999.

Sure sounds like a bad ignition switch to me.

[LittleHoov]

Yup, Id definetely start with the ignition switch, some folks have luck cleaning theirs, but if yours is that bad, you should probably just replace it.

If you search for "ignition switch removal" with me as the author youll find instructions for removal of the switch. Its not too hard.

[dodge9fan]

BNaylor and LittleHoov,
Thanks to both of you for your reponses. And it is a 3.5, my error. I plan on replacing that in the next week or two. I will let you know what the outcome is.

[Johnymac]

I have the same year, same motor and had all of the same problems. I just replaced the ignition switch and it fixed all of those problems. LittleHoov, you rock dude! You have been a huge help to a ton of people in here!