My 89 firebird won't start and I've narrowed it down to something with the ignition switch I think. only thing i can't seem to figure out now is how to get the darn thing out. I droped the steering column down but was only able to remove one bolt holding it in place. i can't fit a tool on the back one and the one in the middle has plugs that i can't seem to remove blocking it. Also is there anyway to test if the ignition switch is still good? After about 2 hours of messing with the car when it stoped starting it randomly decied to start but wouldnt again after I got it home.

 

My '89 trans am had a similar ignition-related problem, the engine would cut off and stop running while driving down the highway. Turning the key would restart it, but it was really scary. Anyways, for me, it turned out to be the pass-through resistor thingy on the key, there was a short in that circuit. So I disconnected it, and now no problems (though I suppose the car is easier to steal now). All I'm saying is, it may not be your ignition switch, I'd suggest getting a shop manual you'll need it anyways for these cars.

 

Well it dosn't shut off once its driving it just won't start in the first place.

 

What happens when you turn the key? Do any lights come on? You sure it's not battery/alternator/starter, right? Does turning the ignition "feel" different? There should be some physical resistance you feel through the key.
To get the ignition switch out, you need to take the steering wheel off. You need a steering wheel puller to do that. The bolts are on the front behind the horn. Search for threads on that, there's ones with detailed photos.

 

I've jumped the starter it works fine but wont start the that way even with the key in the on. the ignition switch is on top of the steering column I have the column dropped down a bit but i can't get it off. the rod that activates it seems to move back and forth fine and isnt lose in any way. the car did start once when i started fiddling around with stuff. I drove it home fine but havn't got it to start again.

 

Remove the dimmer switch and you'll be able to see the second screw that holds the ignition switch in. Before removing it, use some tape to hold the rods in place on the column so they don't fall out. When installing the new one the trick is re-connecting the park lock out. If the old assembly is good then you can swap over the complete assembly. If not you'll have to deal with the tabs to remove the cable.

 

Thx I'll try again after work today. Does that dimmer switch just pop out? I didn't take a real good look at it when i was in there.

 

It should be screwed into the ignition switch. IF I remember correctly, and it's been a while, the dimmer switch is held in place with two screws. Once it's removed you should expose the rear screw holding in the ignition switch.

 

I've managed to get all the screws out even with my huge hands but i cant for the life of me manage to get the stupid blue and black plugs out from the side of it. is there a trick to it?

 

Tabs on each side of the plug need to be bent slightly out. Easier to do it with the switch dangling.

 

I can't dangle the switch down to far. looks like the car was probaly stolen at some point most of thos wires are cut a little short and spliced back together.

 

Back at square one. I got the switch out and it looked to have a little burnt spot in there so i replaced it and still aint getting any juice to flow to the starter. with that out does anyone know if there are anymore switches or releays to check for?

 

what year is your car ?? Does it have the vats . the chip on the key ? since you replaced the ignition and its still the same .... could be the vats or the relay behind the drivers left foot kick panel ... corroded wire to the starter .. troubleshoot !

 

Its a 89 and i;m sure at this point its somthing with vats. i get no vats light on the dash and if i bypass the starter enable relay the starter cranks but vats doens't enable the fule pump.

 

if its not ur vats check ur starter relay its in the left kickpanel of ur driver side. had the same problem. or u can do it as an easy fix and put in a push button start