99 Intrige won't start - acting stange

[vibert]

My 99 intrigue suddenly wouldn't start. It clicked, the dash lights were dim, interior lights were off. I jiggled the key and the lights on the dash went bright and the interior lights came back on but when I turn the key they go dim and there is a click. I removed the key and all the instrument needles jumped.
I can start the car when I boost it. I replaced the battery and cleaned the positive cable connection with a wire brush, hot water and baking soda. It seemed to work for 1/2 day but now it's doing the same thing. Can anyone suggest a fix before I take it to the dealer?

Before this started I noticed that the headlights were dimming momentarily when I put on the brakes or used anything electical like power windows. When I took in the old battery I was told it was dead. I replaced it with a larger one that has 750 cold cranking amps.

[Tobey]

Sounds like a classic case of an ignition switch that has gone bad. If you're willing to spend the time, I think it's possible to clean it (there's a guide somewhere around here...), but would be much easier to just replace it.

[dtownfb]

I replaced my ignition switch a few months ago. It is pretty easy to do as the instructions are great. Just give yourself 2 hours.

[Rolm]

Make sure your alternator is working properly. real easy to test start engine turn on AC all the lghts run engine at least 2,000 rpm and take a voltage reading at the battery it should read above 13.5 volts and make sure your headlights are not flikering if they are then the rectifier is burnt-out in your alternator. Do this before you do anything else and it will cost you 0$

[Hoppy2]

After trying to repair the switch on my father in laws car it worked fine for a week. I ended up going to the wrecking yard and got a switch from an 03 Grand Prix and installed it. No problems for about 5 months now.

[vibert]

Back from the dealership. They replaced the bolt and cleaned the positive battery cable connection.

Advise to others: Make sure you clean it well, remove the red plastic!

[vibert]

Originally Posted by Rolm

Make sure your alternator is working properly. real easy to test start engine turn on AC all the lghts run engine at least 2,000 rpm and take a voltage reading at the battery it should read above 13.5 volts and make sure your headlights are not flikering if they are then the rectifier is burnt-out in your alternator. Do this before you do anything else and it will cost you 0$

After replacing the battery the lights are not dimming anymore. But I'll find my my voltmeter and try your test.