car WONT starrrt

[FlyingDutchman]

no its not the z, actually its a 98 malibu 3.1l. just got it back from the trans shop after it sat for maybe a month or so. today it ran 100% normal and put some miles on the give it a good run since its been sitting around.

so far . . .

- Battery is like new, has plenty of charge to start it

- Gas has sat long enough to really go bad, besides it was running til just now

turned it off for a few in my driveway, went to start it to move and all i get is the lights dim low, but no sounds from the motor, not even a "click" so maybe the starter took a dump? :moon:

also i found it weird that after i tried starting it i could get the shifter into neutral (its an automatic) until i slightly bumped it, now it goes through teh gears fine


so anyone have a clue?

[sweetbmxrider]

might want to talk to the trans shop if you noticed issues with the trans. not sure of the work they did but something to consider. best bet is using a test light and checking for power at the starter on the large wire, then having someone turning the key to start and checking the smaller wire for power. also, smack the starter with a hammer. i believe they are right up front. between the radiator and motor down low if that makes sense.

[FlyingDutchman]

might want to talk to the trans shop if you noticed issues with the trans. not sure of the work they did but something to consider. best bet is using a test light and checking for power at the starter on the large wire, then having someone turning the key to start and checking the smaller wire for power. also, smack the starter with a hammer. i believe they are right up front. between the radiator and motor down low if that makes sense.

hmmm, ive heard of hitting it with a hammer ill try 2moro when theres some light outside and i can see better because its sort of a tight spot

[NJ Torque]

security light staying on?

[CHRIS67]

Neutral safety switch issue?

[Mike]

security light staying on?

vats...........

when i changed my column, same symptoms.

full charge, no fuel issues, but not even a click when turning the key....bypassed vats and its good as new

[sweetbmxrider]

vats...........

when i changed my column, same symptoms.

full charge, no fuel issues, but not even a click when turning the key....bypassed vats and its good as new

its a 98 malibu 3.1L

i know i've done a few ignition cylinders in them and its rather common for it to go bad. best to start with the simple **** and work up towards that conclusion. i think it throws a code when the cylinder goes bad.

[FlyingDutchman]

tapped wit a hammer and it seems we have a dead spot in teh starter so gonna have to replace it thanks for teh input

btw no security light on

[sweetbmxrider]

good **** 8-) who taps? :lol: i ground and pound those mothers