2003 Cavalier Starting Problems

Try checking your ignition switch

Lots of cavalier Faults

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when it next wont start run a wire to the starter solenoid or relay ie by pass the igniton switch, if it now cranks over its either the igniton switch or the wiring to the igniton switch.

if you can get to the back of the ignition switch you could work out which wire goes to the starter and bridge it to see if the wiring is ok, if it cranks every time its the switch.

make sure its out of gear when you try this.

Also it may be the inhibitor switch on the Automatic shift if its an auto that is.

Theres a switch on the shifter to stop you starting it in gear when this plays up it also stops you starting it in any position.

I hope this helps

Hope this isn't posted twice as I did it once and didn't see it posted.

Thank for all of the advice. If I solve this I will post the results. May take a week or so as I have to work on it on my days off but I will keep reading and try the suggestions.

Thank you again. Your help is appreciated.

RK1953

it doesn't even turn over. There is nothing. No click from the solenoid either? If I turn it (do you mean turn the key to the start position?)about 10-15 times it will finally start but then it does it again. After the motor starts, does it die when you take your hand off the Ignition switch or run for awhile? After going through this two or three times it starts ok for about a weeks or so then it won't start again.

The preceding advice sounds good to me.

No click from the solenoid. Yes, the start position. It doesn't die once started it runs fine. It never dies.

Great information.

I will try everything soon as I can get the time to work on it. I was at a loss as to what to try next.

rk1953

peterg7lyq is referring to the neutral safety switch which can go out of adjustment. Most cars can be started in either neutral or park.

To check this turn the key to start and jiggle the shift lever back and fourth up and down etc. while still in park. If it starts while you are doing this, then it is probably the NSS. Try starting the car in neutral, too.

Good luck.

I must agree with the suggestions already put forth. Good advice. Do you know where the ignition switch is located? Depending on which engine you have in the car, It could be somewhat difficult to access the starter solenoid to jump it. When you refer to the relay are you referring to the solenoid on top of the starter itself? If so the single wire coming down to the solenoid adjacent to the positive battery terminal on the solenoid should be the terminal to bring power to if you are going to jump it. Just make sure the parking brake is on and it is in park . You need to be a little cautious since if you take power from that positive terminal to the small wire that engages the solenoid and you touch any ground point you may do a little welding. So be careful. If we can offer any additional assistance don't hesitate to ask.

h

Yet ANOTHER cavalier?

Go figure!