1987 Corvette Problem
Thread Starter
7th Gear
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
1987 Corvette Problem
I have problems starting my 1987 Corvette. I turn the key and the engine does not turn over. I repeat it over and over. Then all of a sudden my car starts. My mechanic said that there might be a chip in the key, and that prevents it from starting. I would appreciate any input. Thank You.
Mark A. Mecca
Mark A. Mecca
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 32,990
Likes: 6,523
From: Rochester NY
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '26
I'm not sure what year the VATS was introduced. If you have that, you have to wait about 7 minutes after a "fail" so it will reset. Do a search on here for "VATS" and you'll find several threads.
If it's not VATS, got to be some electrical connection not making. I'd start with the obvious - battery terminals, starter wire, etc. Suppose it COULD be something in the ignition switch but I'll leave input on that to those more knowledgeable.
Good luck and let us know what you find out.
If it's not VATS, got to be some electrical connection not making. I'd start with the obvious - battery terminals, starter wire, etc. Suppose it COULD be something in the ignition switch but I'll leave input on that to those more knowledgeable.
Good luck and let us know what you find out.
Team Owner
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 22,830
Likes: 13
From: Columbus Ohio
CI 3-4, 8-9-10 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '06-'08-'10
Clean the pellet on the key first with rubbing alcohol.
Then lightly dampen a Q tip with rubbing alcohol and swab the contacts in the switch.
If that does not work THEN start looking for a replacement key.
Then lightly dampen a Q tip with rubbing alcohol and swab the contacts in the switch.
If that does not work THEN start looking for a replacement key.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 6,470
Likes: 2
From: levittown pa. usa Even a bad day with my `Vette, is better than a good day at work
St. Jude Donor '10
As stated, first clean the "pellet", if that does not work, any competent key shop can make you one. 
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Racer
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 447
Likes: 0
From: Woodinville WA
I had the same issue with my 87 and it was the VATS Key and then I ended up replacing the whole ignition in the steering column. When a car is that old you never know how it was really cared for so be prepared for the worst cost scenario. Good Luck!
