I have a 2003 Chevy Impala that is having problems starting. It is not the battery or the starter, I don't think. I believe it is a problem with the computer and a security lock out. In the past, when the car wouldn't start, if I would let it sit for 15 minutes it would then start. Last week the resting period didn't work anymore, but when my husband switched it from park to neutral it started. All of this ties in with the manual and a security lockout. However, since it isn't starting easily, I don't want to get it to a repair shop that can't fix it and have to have it towed away. Our local Chevy dealership is not trustworthy, so I don't want to take it there. Any suggestions on where else to try?
2007-09-11 02:17:06 · 9 answers · asked by catsovermen 4 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Another GM dealer. Check GM's Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your car at http://www.edmunds.com/maintenance/MaintenanceServlet
You will probably find one of the TSB titles that refer to the problem so print out that TSB description and bring it with you to the new GM dealer even if you have to drive a few miles to get to a different dealer. Also view similar owner complaints at http://www.mycarstats.com Check your car owner's manual for reprogramming procedures that you can do yourself to reset the security system. It's worth a try, but you'll likely need a trip to the dealer.
2007-09-11 02:21:48 · answer #1 · answered by bobweb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like the Neutral safety switch. This switch is commonly burnt out especially by aftermarket alarms. It doesn't allow the vehicle to start while in Drive or in gear. Your best bet would be to go to an Auto electric service shop and they will properly diagnose the problem! Hope this helps....
2007-09-11 11:07:20 · answer #2 · answered by irishwhitlock 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to take it to a dealer. It is going to run you about $800 to fix. It is a security lockout. They have had a HUGE problem with this. I am still surprised that there has not been a factory recall to fix the issue.
2007-09-11 09:20:24 · answer #3 · answered by Yes I am here!! 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try a different Chevy dealer. This problem may be unique to Impalas and if you take it to just any repair shop they may never find the problem, or they may charge you alot to find it. Chevy may have a service bulletin for the problem.
Next time, buy a Honda :-)
2007-09-11 09:25:49 · answer #4 · answered by JeffyB 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I had the same problem....if it is the security lock-out you have to reset the code, put the key in the on position to reset code, wait 30 seconds and then start it, otherwise take it to a different dealership and have them reset the code.
2007-09-11 09:36:43 · answer #5 · answered by sadie_oyes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like the neutral lock-out switch may be bad. Any GM dealer could hook your car's computer system to their diagnostic machine and find this fault in seconds.
2007-09-11 09:25:36 · answer #6 · answered by Country Boy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
um does your security light come on or does it just not start? the one way to possibly fix that is try the spare key if the security light is on when trying to start.. my 00 monte wouldnt start cuz of the pass lock and when i took it to the dealer,they suggested the spare key.
2007-09-11 09:54:38 · answer #7 · answered by DAVE C 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take it to another dealership close to home and let them check it out . I know cars can be a pain for women especially . i hate cars sometimes . good luck.
2007-09-11 09:25:43 · answer #8 · answered by Kate T. 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
bad neutral safety switch...try any gm dealer
2007-09-11 09:24:08 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋