99 Grand Prix - no voltage

[mikec193]

Hi,

My 99 Grand Prix has no electrical functions anywhere in the car.

This started while leaving one morning. I started the car - put it into reverse - it died. I put it back into park, and restarted. Put it into reverse - it died again. Only this time, when I put it back into park, there was no response when I turned the key. Since then - no sign of electricity anywhere in the car. No interior lights, does not respond to fob, no headlights.... nothing. I charged the battery and replaced - no difference.

I checked the IGN Main fuses - they look all right.

Important note - I have the common ignition lock problem, where the ignition will not return to the lock position. I have been using the emergency release.

I am now looking for shorts, checking circuits, but with everything dead, it is tough to narrow down.

Has anyone seen this condition? Can it be related to the ignition interlock?

[BNaylor]

Even though you checked the IGN MAIN 1 or 2 fuses did you check to make sure 12 volts is there at the fuse socket. How about at the red lead at the engine compartment fuse box from the battery positive. Also make sure the ground is good. IGN MAIN 1 and 2 circuits then go directly to the ignition switch but the problem sounds like it is before that.

[mikec193]

Thanks, BN.
The problem turned out to be the cable from the positive battery terminal to the positive lead on the fuse box. The cable was pulling away from the battery terminal - it appeared connected and measured connectivity, but the connection was bad enough to cause a voltage drop at the fuse box positive. So the starter would turn and the battery would charge, but the control functions powered through the fuse box were all dead. Cable replacement brought the Grand Prix back to life.

Thanks again!
Mike

[richtazz]

Thanks for the feedback Mike. It may help someone else doing a forum search with a similar issue.