VATS Problem Solved (for now)
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 333
Likes: 0
From: Wichita KS
VATS Problem Solved (for now)
I had trouble with my car starting when it got hot. Turn the key and nothing. It was getting to be embarrassing. I thought it was heat soak at first. I replaced the starter and used a heat shield. Problem still persisted. I had thought about bypassing the VATS system next. Instead of this, upon the suggestion of member jfb, I decided to track down the actual problem. I checked for loose connections under the hush panel and cleaned all of them. I also cleaned the terminals for the start enable relay. I then went and purchased a new key. Since then no more problems. It has been a little over a week and have had no signs of trouble. My next step would have been the ignition switch (tumbler). The old key will be used as a spare in an emergency. I am glad that I still have the piece of mind of a security system on the car. I know that if a thief wants the car bad enough they will get it but why "hand them the keys"? Thanks to all for your suggestions.
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
Re: VATS Problem Solved (robblk90)
I'm glad your VATS problem has stopped. Probably worn key pellet contacts. WOW, somebody actually took my advice :cheers: Maybe I should call the local paper and get my picture taken and story on the front page. :D
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,985
Likes: 0
From: Portage Mi
Re: VATS Problem Solved (robblk90)
If this problem returns, horrible as this might sound, you might
consider trying to push start the car. If you have a security issue,
ie VATS or ignition switch, you will not be able to start the car this
way. When I had this problem I replaced the starter relay (it seemed
like a sealed unit to me). It was cheap and it solved the problem.
consider trying to push start the car. If you have a security issue,
ie VATS or ignition switch, you will not be able to start the car this
way. When I had this problem I replaced the starter relay (it seemed
like a sealed unit to me). It was cheap and it solved the problem.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 333
Likes: 0
From: Wichita KS
Re: VATS Problem Solved (Black 'n Blue)
Did the relay you replaced have two thick red wires going to it? The relay I cleaned was hanging with electrical tape around the connection. I assumed it was the start relay because of the size of the wires going to it. I copied down every number off of it and took those numbers to the chevy dealership but could not find them in the computer as a part number. BTW I could pop start the car. :confused:
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,985
Likes: 0
From: Portage Mi
Re: VATS Problem Solved (robblk90)
The dealership I purchased the car from installed a few extra
security goodies before they delivered it, so I never got to see
the original wiring in its unaltered state. Also, there may be some
differences because mine is an '89. I think it had black, green, and
yellow wires. The dealership where I have the car serviced was unable
to diagnose this problem, and they also couldn't locate a part number
until I showed them where it was located on their schematic. It turned
out to be a common relay used on several GM models (hence the
"cheap" part) and they even had one in stock. Hope this helps. I don't
know the part number, but I'm sure someone else can help you with
that.
I don't think the number on the part is the GM number. It might be
a Bosch number.
[Modified by Black 'n Blue, 3:41 AM 9/6/2001]
security goodies before they delivered it, so I never got to see
the original wiring in its unaltered state. Also, there may be some
differences because mine is an '89. I think it had black, green, and
yellow wires. The dealership where I have the car serviced was unable
to diagnose this problem, and they also couldn't locate a part number
until I showed them where it was located on their schematic. It turned
out to be a common relay used on several GM models (hence the
"cheap" part) and they even had one in stock. Hope this helps. I don't
know the part number, but I'm sure someone else can help you with
that.
I don't think the number on the part is the GM number. It might be
a Bosch number.
[Modified by Black 'n Blue, 3:41 AM 9/6/2001]
