Yesterday took my 96 LT4 to a car show. Everything went fine on the way there. We got parked, sat around and shot the breeze. When it was time to go, no start. The battery is good. We suspect something with the security system. When I try to start it does not click or do anything. When you leave the key in the run position the security and check gauges lights stay on unlike the 96 that was parked next to me. We tried my spare key which is like new and no luck. Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

First, wipe the ignition key off with rubbing alcohol or saliva, then re-insert. Sometimes dirt and other contaminants prevent the system from reading the pellet chip on the key properly.

Always assume the simple.

 

You need to be more specific when you describe your problem. No start can mean that it cranks but the engine won't catch and run, or it could mean that the starter would not crank the engine. I'm guessing it wouldn't crank and this most likely is VATS. First try your spare key as its pellet contacts aren't worn like your everyday key. Next, jump the clutch safety switch (gear selector switch if auto) and try a crank. Measure the voltage to ground on the jumper and try a crank. If you get 12v but no cranking, then you have a starter problem. If no 12v , then pull the hush panel above drivers feet and find the 2 wires from the steering column that plug into a 2 pin connector and unplug. Insert your ign key and measure the resistance across the wires from the steering column. It should measure the same as the pellet. If over 13k ohms, you need a new ign tumbler which will have new contacts that make connection to the pellet. You can temporarily bypass VATS by clipping a fixed resistor the same value as the pellet across the 2 wires that come out of the wiring harness (these go to the VATS module). You can use a 1/4 watt 5% resistor from Radio Shack. Don't permanently bypass VATS because 99% of thefts are done by bashing the column and jumping the ignition.

 

If The Security Light Stays On After You Turn The Key To The On Position Then That Is Probably Your Problem. Like The Other Guy Said First Make Sure You Key Is Good And Clean And The Lock Cylinder Is As Well. From There You Probably Have A Broken Lock Cylinder. In There Where The Chip Makes Contact Two Wires Are Attached To It. There Is A Bad Habit Of Then Breaking Off. I Think A Scan Will Tell You This If Not You Wil Have To Pull It Out And You Can See If Its Broke Are Not. Good Luck