2002 chevy impala ignition start question

[jetmech]

I have been getting a no start on my car and think it is in the lock cylinder. The car wont crank, battery is good etc. i
I turn the key to start and after the 10 -20th time it cranks and starts. I see the cylinder can be bought for about 50 bucks but without keys, is switching the key portion from mine to the new one an easy job. thanks.

 

[charlief1]

The lock cylinder and the ignition switch are 2 seperate parts. It's not that hard a job but if it has VATS then you may still have an issue and will have to take it to a dealer to fix it.

 

[jetmech]

Not sure if it has an anti-theft system. i read the ignition switch replace ment and it said i may have to do the body control relearn system procedure and it said that is in my owners manual.

 

[jetmech]

Just did a little more research, it may be the switch/start relay that is mounted behind the lock cylinder. It say the lock cylilnder is then connected to the switch relay which sends power to the starter. Let me know which is the common problem, Car has 190k on it so one of the 2 items is worn out.

 

[GNTIM]

might want to check for a signal at the starter first

 

[KL Mallender]

If you find the problem related to VATS(and I'm betting you do) there is a simple wiring modification that can be done to bypass VATS, I have personally done it to several GM models exibiting this very common problem, and your car is at the age where most start having the problem intermittantly.
If your car fails to crank, keep your ignition switch in the "run" position for ten(10)minutes, turn switch to off then restart imediately.
That is the time required for VATS to reset as per factory.
If you wish to disable system permanently, pm me for links to instructions.
If you want to repair VATS, you will be needing access to GM tool "Tech II" to begin, and of course a few dollars to the General for parts to reactivate a system that seems to only protect the car from it's owner, car thieves have no problem working around it.
Good luck.

Kevin.

 

[jetmech]

I had it fail the other day so i swapped the start relaly with a fan control relay and it started. then i swapped them back to verify and it started again. if it happens at home i will check for power on the solenoid(small wire). so far the car has been starting latley. Thanks for the tips.

 

[chopped39]

Check the under hood fuse panel for corrosion have replace a few of them.. Is the theft light going on? The 10 min time may take three times for car to start. does car have remote start? If you need it scanned let me know Im in addison. I can see if there are theft codes and help you diag it .I can do the ignition if needed .done tons of them. email me if you have problems