My car wouldn't start today when I tried to leave work, but then about 15 or 20 min. later is started like nothing was even wrong. When it didn't start, the starter didn't even try as if the VATS was telling it not to start, but the car had power (lights, dash, stereo, etc.). I thought it would be odd for one of those parts just to fail out of the blue and the car started right up in the morning and at lunch and hasn't given me any problems. My questions are where exactly are the VATS and clutch switches located and how can I test them?

I know the ignition switch is on the steering column and since that's kind of PITA, and I suspect one of the other problems first I'd like to know how to test them incase I continue to have problems.

Thanks.

 

I had that same problem about a month ago, so if anyone could help us out here for a fix that would be great. Right now I am runing a push button start, so I can start the car reibably

 

Read the codes if any. If the VATS fails normally the security light will come on and stay on. VATS will normally give you a code. Possible causes for VATS failure is ignition sw contact not making connection to the key pellet resistor. There is a relay in the driver side kick panel that is used by VATS for starter solenoid disable. Otherwise normal troubleshooting applies.

 

Ok, F-Boy, if you can start it with a push start button your VATS is fine, because when it's bad it won't allow voltage to your ignition and injectors. In your case I would assume that maybe the problem is the ignition switch under the column or even the relay on the driverside kickpanel.
Now as for My90Iroc, you need to check your key's "chip" for wearness and cleanness. The security light should come one when you first turn on the ignition and turn itself off after a couple of seconds as the VATS system "ok's" the key and "authorizes" the ignition system and starter and injectors. If the security light stays on, and your car doesn't start, then check your key. If it's bad, you can have another one made at a hardware store, they cost less than $20.00 for a copy, and they'll read the value of the "chip" in your key. Hope this works, I've had these two problems before. That's how I was able to buy my car for $600 on time, since it didn't run!

 

I had the same problem with my car. There is a module in the drivers kick that i had to replace.

 

That's the starter relay.

 

a color code guide to the ignition switch harness is avaliable here:

http://www.p71interceptor.com/thirdgen/alarminfo

 

Man, I was just browsing thru your web site, it's amazing, thanks for all that research you've done and made available to us (ignorant ones)

 

Thank you Davidgou, you help is greatly appreciated, then I can get rid of the push button after a month of it

 

So, you mean your security light does turn off a couple seconds after you insert the key and then you push your button to start it? If that's the case, then yes, check the starter relay and the ignition switch under the column. I hope this works man, let us know.