car won't start: sometimes
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
car won't start: sometimes
I have a '97 C5. I have a re-occurring problem where I put the key in the ignition to try and start the car. The gauges come on, the fuel pump comes on, but no starting the motor. Its not the battery, as once it decides to start it starts fine. I think it has something to do with the security system (VATS?). If I remove the key, open and shut the door, flip the door locks, hold my mouth just right, etc, it always starts. It sometimes takes a few minutes though. Its starting to be a real pain. I've seen threads to override the VATS. Could this be the solution? Any help is appreciated.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 1,987
Likes: 24
From: Texas
I had a similar problem with my '00 FRC. Attempt to start and nothing. Wait 1 minute and try again. Repeat up to 3 times.....
It turned out to be the ignition switch in my case...
about $229 from a local dealer to repair it..
What codes is it throwing? If they're the same as what I was seeing maybe I can save you some trouble...
It turned out to be the ignition switch in my case...
about $229 from a local dealer to repair it..
What codes is it throwing? If they're the same as what I was seeing maybe I can save you some trouble...
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
From: Monument CO
Same problem, easy fix
I had exactly the same problem. Turned out that the connector to the theft deterrent system under the passenger floorboard was either loose or had a bit of corrosion. Taking the connector apart and cleaning it, then making sure the connectors were seated correctly solved the problem. No cost at all, but it drove me nuts for about a year as it only seemed to happen when it was cold outside. Dealer couldn't find it either because by the time they rolled it inside, the car warmed up and it didn't fail.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 10,078
Likes: 17
My car just started doing this last night, and it pissed me off right before I went to bed. Last time this happened, it was corrosion on my battery terminals. Not this time though. I hope it is as easy as some of your suggestions, thanks. I just spent an enormous amount of time and energy preparing my car for an event NEXT weekend. I better get it figured out soon, or forfeit my fee's ($700).
Drifting
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,917
Likes: 18
From: Tulsa OK
My vote is also the ignition switch. I had this problem last year and after trying every electrical solution I could think of, I finally ordered a new iginition switch from Fred Beans (only around $75 shipped). Installed it and never had the problem again. If you do buy a new ignition switch, you will have to take it to a locksmith to cut it to fit your existing key. On older C5s, the ignition switch gets worn and stops reading the VATS resistor on the key.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 2,137
Likes: 1
From: Oklahoma City OK
Cruise-In III Veteran
My '02 Z06 had the same problem. It was the ignition switch. I took the switch apart and straightened/cleaned the center contacts. It took about 45-minutes and $0 expenditure to fix it.
