starting problem on 2001
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,488
Likes: 1,743
From: Knoxville Tn
starting problem on 2001
A couple of weeks ago I starting having an intermittent starting problem with my D/D coupe (aprox. 130,000 miles). The first time I noticed it was a slight pause when turning the ignition switch to start and a slight hesitation followed by all else being normal.
After doing a bit of research I found that there is a two second prime to the fuel pumps insuring the fuel was available to the engine.
The problem seemed to worsen daily. I found that if I turn the key on, then off, then on to start, the car started almost every time. The fuel filter had never been changed so I got a new one at the local dealer and made the swap. (After so many miles, I felt this was good maintenance anyway).
The problem worsened as days passed. OK the fuel filter wasn't the problem. Now the problem presented itself like a bad battery with the solenoid clicking but no starter spin. I swapped the battery (I have two Vettes) and still no cure.
The problem progressed to flashing dash lights during initial system checks, with reduced engine power, traction control codes etc. Turning the key off and on several time would then start the car normally. Once running the car ran fine until shut off.
After a different battery, new fuel filter and a couple of other minor attempts (different key)I concluded I either had a grounding problem or a bad electrical connection between the key electronics and the starter.
Yesterday John and I pulled the ignition key module and replaced the electronics while using the original mechanical key mechanism. That allowed me to use my original keys. Yep, that seems to have done the trick.
I just wanted to post this as a reference to everyone should they have a similar problem.
After doing a bit of research I found that there is a two second prime to the fuel pumps insuring the fuel was available to the engine.
The problem seemed to worsen daily. I found that if I turn the key on, then off, then on to start, the car started almost every time. The fuel filter had never been changed so I got a new one at the local dealer and made the swap. (After so many miles, I felt this was good maintenance anyway).
The problem worsened as days passed. OK the fuel filter wasn't the problem. Now the problem presented itself like a bad battery with the solenoid clicking but no starter spin. I swapped the battery (I have two Vettes) and still no cure.
The problem progressed to flashing dash lights during initial system checks, with reduced engine power, traction control codes etc. Turning the key off and on several time would then start the car normally. Once running the car ran fine until shut off.
After a different battery, new fuel filter and a couple of other minor attempts (different key)I concluded I either had a grounding problem or a bad electrical connection between the key electronics and the starter.
Yesterday John and I pulled the ignition key module and replaced the electronics while using the original mechanical key mechanism. That allowed me to use my original keys. Yep, that seems to have done the trick.
I just wanted to post this as a reference to everyone should they have a similar problem.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,488
Likes: 1,743
From: Knoxville Tn
Normal wear and tear from my end.
I bought the car with 100,000 miles on it, so I don't know the history of the previous owner's key chain. I have only one key, the fob and an plastic identifier piece.
I bought the car with 100,000 miles on it, so I don't know the history of the previous owner's key chain. I have only one key, the fob and an plastic identifier piece.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 9,488
Likes: 1,743
From: Knoxville Tn
Sounds like you replaced the ignition switch and reused the key cylinder. Ignition switch looks like this:
Amazon.com: ACDelco D1499C GM Original Equipment Ignition Switch: Automotive
If that is the part you replaced, it is not subject to the weight of "stuff" hanging on a key chain. It fails because of carbon build up and pitting of the contact surfaces inside the plastic housing. This results from high currents passing through the contact surfaces and the associated arcing that occurs as the contacts "make and break" as you start/shut off the ignition.
Amazon.com: ACDelco D1499C GM Original Equipment Ignition Switch: Automotive
If that is the part you replaced, it is not subject to the weight of "stuff" hanging on a key chain. It fails because of carbon build up and pitting of the contact surfaces inside the plastic housing. This results from high currents passing through the contact surfaces and the associated arcing that occurs as the contacts "make and break" as you start/shut off the ignition.
