Key/Ignition Problem-Intermittant No Start

[paulp64131]

Hi everyone,

I have been having an issue starting my 2000 GP GT 3.8 4 Dr (No-Mods) 155k miles. Typically happens in morning or after sitting for several hours. Here is the scenario. Stick key in. Turn to start. Nothing. I can hear relays in Glove box area when trying. And I hear fuel pump right before. But no turn over in the engine. Turn off, turn to "on" position. Let all instrument lights come on briefly. wait for 5 Seconds turn the rest of the way to start and it starts. However, now the little ritual is not working. Took several rounds of this and let it sit for several minutes before it would finally start. Have been using Valet key for last 4 or 5 years. Could it be key or ignition? What would be the best way to diagnose?

Thanks in advance.

Paul

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by paulp64131

Could it be key or ignition? What would be the best way to diagnose?

Using proper documentation such the GM FSM wiring diagrams and a multimeter (DMM). Check IGN MAIN 1 and 2 fuses. If fuses are good check for 12 volts at the fuse sockets. If 12 volts is good at fuse sockets then check the IGN MAIN 1/2 inputs to the ignition switch and outputs. Most likely the ignition switch and harness assembly but some simple and basic troubleshooting can prove it.

[paulp64131]

Originally Posted by BNaylor

Using proper documentation such the GM FSM wiring diagrams and a multimeter (DMM). Check IGN MAIN 1 and 2 fuses. If fuses are good check for 12 volts at the fuse sockets. If 12 volts is good at fuse sockets then check the IGN MAIN 1/2 inputs to the ignition switch and outputs. Most likely the ignition switch and harness assembly but some simple and basic troubleshooting can prove it.

Thanks BNaylor, as always appreciate the help

Paul

[Pontiac4life]

My 98GT did it, only difference I see is that you dont describe like a "iiiiirrrrgghhhh" sound coming out the sterring wheel column, which happened on mine. It was a bad ignition switch. Part turned out cheaper than the labor due to the Dealer Installed Alarm re-installation. Hope this helps.

[paulp64131]

Hi fellas, Here is where I am on that problem. After a Weekend out the the Infield watching Nascar all weekend, I went out to Load all my stuff into my car and head out. Started fine. backed it up, parked and loaded, went to restart... Nothing. Just the clicking of relays in glove box area Nothing unusual indicator wise.

Found a light tester in my Brothernlaws garage. jacked up the car and put it on the purple lead to the solenoid. (No Light when key was turned to start and tested) So... Got a ride to parts store and got a ignition switch. replaced it using instruction on this site. Still no start. Was the end of the day so didn't retest the wire on solenoid. My guess is still bad. So I will go test again tomorrow or next day. Dealer didn't have a PRNDL switch on hand so it would be in tomorrow. does anyone have any advice on this repair (PRNDL Switch). Looks like if I can get in there, it is just a big bolt on the linkage and two bolts holding switch?

Am I on the right track still?

Have read about a security light issue in other posts. I think it lights breifly but then goes off, it didn't grab my attention anyway. What would a problem with the key look like.

[paulp64131]

Ok, sooo... I replaced the Ignition switch, PRNDL (Neutral Safety) switch, finally got voltage to Solenoid on starter. But... No start. Replaced starter. Seems odd that the starter and the PRNDL would both be bad, but i suppose it could happen. Either way, I now have new Switches and a new starter, that I installed so no labor for less than $300. I wanted to give a small write up on the PRNDL switch replacement, which you will find in the Tips and Maint. Thanks to all that assisted me so far. You guys are the bomb.

Oh... After fixing, went to wash the GP. I rounded the the corner to the carwash and hit a huge pot hole right front. Did not even see it. Bang there goes the stupid front sway bar. Broke right at the end. What B1@ch. I tell you. Sometimes just don't pay to get out of bed. Thankfully, I found the write up on that.

[tblake]

good Job!

Glad to hear you got it going!

Tough break on the stabilizer bar, but if yours laster 8 years, you got your time out of it.

[paulp64131]

Originally Posted by tblake

Tough break on the stabilizer bar, but if yours laster 8 years, you got your time out of it.

Oh yeah, I s'pose your right. It has been a great car. And its paid for!!

Thanks.

[tblake]

Yep, I hear that.

BTW, nice writeup in tipps and maintenance, I added PRNDL adjustment procedures. I hope thats ok.