Intermittent starting problem
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Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 63
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From: Topeka Ks
Intermittent starting problem
My 86 C4 has an intermittent problem that I haven't been able to solve. Sometimes when I turn the key the selenoid doesn't kick in and and the starter doesn't turn. I've replaced the starter ane selenoid, checked the park/nuetral switch, and have a new battery. When this occurs, I can wait about 10 and try again and it starts with no problem. It doesn't seem to matter if the car is warm or if it has been sitting in the garage for a week - it's totally intermittent. Anyone have a similar problem or any suggestions? Is there a common problem with the anti-theft system that anyone knows about that could cause this? :confused:
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,648
Likes: 1
From: Denham Springs Louisiana
Re: Intermittent starting problem (dclong)
I have had the same problem. I posted something about it and most of the replies came back about the VATS system. I don't know if the '86's had the VATS, (security chip on ignition key) but when the starter didn't kick in on mine, I simply took the key out and tried again, fired right up. A friend of mine has a '91 Camaro and he said that his did the same thing on some occassions.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 5,419
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From: Are you the bug or are you the windshield.....
Re: Intermittent starting problem (dclong)
Dclong,
I am having the same problem that you are talking about. If you pull the codes from the computer you can find out if it is your VATS or not, if it is an error code of 46 should appear.
If that is the case with mine, I am going to get a bypass kit from MidAmerica or Ecklers.
On a side note, I noticed that you are a relatively new member. You came to the right place for some answers....
Also, you are about 3 hours south of me, maybe sometime in the future we can hook up and do some cruising.
I am having the same problem that you are talking about. If you pull the codes from the computer you can find out if it is your VATS or not, if it is an error code of 46 should appear.
If that is the case with mine, I am going to get a bypass kit from MidAmerica or Ecklers.
On a side note, I noticed that you are a relatively new member. You came to the right place for some answers....
Also, you are about 3 hours south of me, maybe sometime in the future we can hook up and do some cruising.
Instructor
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 116
Likes: 0
From: Sandnes Norway
Re: Intermittent starting problem (dclong)
Hi!
As suggested allready, its most probably the VATS acting up. 86 was the first year with VATS. I had the same problem on my 86, sometimes it would not crank. Tired again 4 minutes later everything was fine in most cases.
I got a new key and things were better, but it stil was a problem occationally. Replaced the lock cylinder also, and I have never had a problem after that !! A new lock cylinder is like $40 and a new key is $15. The bypass is cheaper but I like the (litle?) protection that the VATS gives..
PS! This will only solve th problem if its bad conntact between key chip and conntacts in lock cylinder that causes it. This did not set a code in my car. If its the VATS module (less likely IMHO) this will not help..
As suggested allready, its most probably the VATS acting up. 86 was the first year with VATS. I had the same problem on my 86, sometimes it would not crank. Tired again 4 minutes later everything was fine in most cases.
I got a new key and things were better, but it stil was a problem occationally. Replaced the lock cylinder also, and I have never had a problem after that !! A new lock cylinder is like $40 and a new key is $15. The bypass is cheaper but I like the (litle?) protection that the VATS gives..
PS! This will only solve th problem if its bad conntact between key chip and conntacts in lock cylinder that causes it. This did not set a code in my car. If its the VATS module (less likely IMHO) this will not help..
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
Re: Intermittent starting problem (dclong)
You can prove its the VATS contacts in your ign switch by unplugging the 2 pin connector at the base of your steering column under the carpet. Measure the resistance of the pins from the wire coming out of the column with the key installed. The resistance should be the same as the pellet. If it is higher than 10k ohms , then your contacts in the ign sw are worn and not making reliable connection to the pellet in your ign key. Your spare key might make better connection, so give that a try. Make the resistance measurements when it won't start. Bypassing VATS is not a good idea because your C4 can be stolen by bashing your column and jumping the ign sw. I know some C4 owners that went to their car and found a bashed column but the car hadn't moved an inch. 99% of thefts are done this way. You can put a hidden switch that defeats the VATS and only use it when you start the car, but if you are going to go to this trouble then why not just install a new ignition switch? My 87 is on its third ign sw (173k miles). You can clip a fixed resistor the same value as your pellet onto the wires going to the passenger side (VATS module) with the column wires unplugged which bypasses the VATS until your mechanic can replace the switch.
