Possible VATS Issue
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Possible VATS Issue
Hi all,
I just got this 92 Camaro RS last week, knowing it didn’t run, but pretty confident that I could fix it. I’ve been doing a ton of reading about starters, VATS, and the wiring involved. Here’s the situation.
When going to crank, nothing happens. Battery is good and gauges and lights come on. I just installed a new starter that I have confirmed to be operational. After reading more, I’m worried it’s a VATS problem.
The security light stays on and does not blink during the cranking attempt. I went to check the convenience center to see if maybe the VATS fuse was bad but learned there wasn’t even one installed, and on top of that when I tried to install a fuse it just sat loose in the slot. The metal prongs that should hold the fuses were all gone, but the speaker and other two relay looking things were there.
My next step was going to be messing with the ignition switch, but I feel sort of stumped after the fuse thing.
Side note: this is a V6 car currently, and I wanted to get it running just to drive for fun. I will be swapping a 5.3 from a truck (I also have the computer, wiring, and gas pedal from that truck). Is it even worth trying to figure this out, and will I likely experience issues down the road after the swap?
Thanks!
I just got this 92 Camaro RS last week, knowing it didn’t run, but pretty confident that I could fix it. I’ve been doing a ton of reading about starters, VATS, and the wiring involved. Here’s the situation.
When going to crank, nothing happens. Battery is good and gauges and lights come on. I just installed a new starter that I have confirmed to be operational. After reading more, I’m worried it’s a VATS problem.
The security light stays on and does not blink during the cranking attempt. I went to check the convenience center to see if maybe the VATS fuse was bad but learned there wasn’t even one installed, and on top of that when I tried to install a fuse it just sat loose in the slot. The metal prongs that should hold the fuses were all gone, but the speaker and other two relay looking things were there.
My next step was going to be messing with the ignition switch, but I feel sort of stumped after the fuse thing.
Side note: this is a V6 car currently, and I wanted to get it running just to drive for fun. I will be swapping a 5.3 from a truck (I also have the computer, wiring, and gas pedal from that truck). Is it even worth trying to figure this out, and will I likely experience issues down the road after the swap?
Thanks!
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Indianapolis, IN
Car: 1989 Trans Am 5.0 TBI
Engine: 5.0 TBI
Transmission: Automatic
Axle/Gears: 3.27 limited slip from 86 GTA
Re: Possible VATS Issue
I have similar issue with no cranking when key is in the start position in my 1989 5.0 TBI Trans Am. I bought the car from the first owner 12 years ago and never had any starting issues. I started the car a couple times and shut it off with no problems. Went to restart and nothing, but no Security light on (always flashed when starting before).
Fuses all look good.
Lights and accessories work.
I am not hearing the starter relay click, but the accessory buzzer stays on with the key in the crank position, so it is hard to hear. I purchased a new relay and get the same result. There is power going to the starter relay and I can get the starter to turn if I jump the outside wires of connector at the starter relay. I think two (maybe three) of the four wires show power with the key in the start position.
I am wondering if I would have power to the relay if I had a key, ignition switch or cylinder lock issue?
and
I believe the starter relay is grounded via the ECM, but if the VATS is disabling the start; why isn't the security light on?
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Fuses all look good.
Lights and accessories work.
I am not hearing the starter relay click, but the accessory buzzer stays on with the key in the crank position, so it is hard to hear. I purchased a new relay and get the same result. There is power going to the starter relay and I can get the starter to turn if I jump the outside wires of connector at the starter relay. I think two (maybe three) of the four wires show power with the key in the start position.
I am wondering if I would have power to the relay if I had a key, ignition switch or cylinder lock issue?
and
I believe the starter relay is grounded via the ECM, but if the VATS is disabling the start; why isn't the security light on?
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post