Al asks.
Dear GM tech MW: I have a problem with my 1997 Chevy Lumina that I can't
get
started.I can turn on the key, all the lights are on, but when I try to engage
the starter it does nothing and the headlights blink off. I can jump
the starter with a screwdriver and the car will start but immediately
shut off. I'm thinking it's a key code problem, but have tried two
different keys. I tried to rent a code reader but they told me the car
needed to be running for it to read codes. Please help direct me in the
right direction as this is the wifes car and itr's been down a couple of
weeks and she's screamin'! Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks a
million and GO 24!!
MW:
Sounds like a security issue. That system has a common problem with the
Passkey ignition key cylinder. There are two small wires that attach to the
cylinder and read the key code. Those wires break. Just trying a different key
wont help, it needs to be the correct security number. That number can be
read from a tool at the dealer. The way to check if the passkey ignition
cylinder is bad, is to go under the dash and check the resistance of the 2
white wires with the key in the ignition. Use a volt/ohm meter to check the
resistance of the circuit. If an open circuit, then the cylinder will need to be
replaced. Not sure how knowledgeable you are with cars, so you may want to
take to a repair shop.
P.S. i am a #3, #8 fan Sorry !
Dear GM tech MW: I have a problem with my 1997 Chevy Lumina that I can't
get
started.I can turn on the key, all the lights are on, but when I try to engage
the starter it does nothing and the headlights blink off. I can jump
the starter with a screwdriver and the car will start but immediately
shut off. I'm thinking it's a key code problem, but have tried two
different keys. I tried to rent a code reader but they told me the car
needed to be running for it to read codes. Please help direct me in the
right direction as this is the wifes car and itr's been down a couple of
weeks and she's screamin'! Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks a
million and GO 24!!
MW:
Sounds like a security issue. That system has a common problem with the
Passkey ignition key cylinder. There are two small wires that attach to the
cylinder and read the key code. Those wires break. Just trying a different key
wont help, it needs to be the correct security number. That number can be
read from a tool at the dealer. The way to check if the passkey ignition
cylinder is bad, is to go under the dash and check the resistance of the 2
white wires with the key in the ignition. Use a volt/ohm meter to check the
resistance of the circuit. If an open circuit, then the cylinder will need to be
replaced. Not sure how knowledgeable you are with cars, so you may want to
take to a repair shop.
P.S. i am a #3, #8 fan Sorry !
Chevy Lumina security / theft problem wont start
Theft / Security Light
The security system on todays cars and trucks prevents the vehicle from being stolen. There are
many variations of the system going back to the early 1990's.
This warning could be on when the engine is running, indicating a fault has been detected in the
system. If left un repaired, there is a good possibility that the car will eventually not start.
There are several different possibilities for the cause of the warning, depending on the make / model /
year of the vehicle. Anything from a bad ignition cylinder wire, to a bad cylinder to a dad Body Control
Module (BCM).
After market (non-factory) alarm and remote start systems can cause havoc with the factory theft
system, causing this warning light, or a no start.
The security system on todays cars and trucks prevents the vehicle from being stolen. There are
many variations of the system going back to the early 1990's.
This warning could be on when the engine is running, indicating a fault has been detected in the
system. If left un repaired, there is a good possibility that the car will eventually not start.
There are several different possibilities for the cause of the warning, depending on the make / model /
year of the vehicle. Anything from a bad ignition cylinder wire, to a bad cylinder to a dad Body Control
Module (BCM).
After market (non-factory) alarm and remote start systems can cause havoc with the factory theft
system, causing this warning light, or a no start.
Auto Repair Help by Expert Mechanics