Hello, I don't know much about cars just the basics so bear with me. I recently bought a 91 bird and it ran okay from the guy i bought it from to my house. Then after about a week it wouldn't start. The battery kept dying so i assumed it was that, i replaced it and still nothing. Ive been told it might be the starter but I have no clue. When I go to start it, it makes no sounds doesn't turn at all. Please help if you can.

 

Does the security light flash?

 

Yeah

 

Then you need to do some reading on the VATS (security) system. Search the boards for VATS. All the info. is there.

 

Make sure you are using the same key the PO originally gave you, with the resistor pellet in it. be sure there is no dust or dirt contaminating the ignition cylinder.

 

I just looked at it. The lights not on. And the key has a little black square on it with a silver line

 

Actually disregard that it is on. Couldn't see it. It's very sunny.

 

Clean the key with a soft cloth to insure good contact with the contacts in the cylinder. If you have any canned air you might try spraying the cylinder with it. Jiggle the key in the lock to be sure the contacts aren't stuck.

The suddenness of your problem makes me think that it is just a poor connection. The VATS(Passkey) system is known to fail but it generally will work intermttently before it stops working altogether. If you want to keep the VATS system, you will need to diagnose and repair the problem.

Otherwise, you can purchase a bypass module that replicates the fuel enable signal to the ECM. You will need to bypass the start enable relay. Then you can install a quality aftermaket alarm system to prevent theft.

Perform a Google search on "GM VATS function" for more information.

 

I'm dumbfounded. the guy who had this rigged this car good. While looking around where the fuses where there was a little switch on the side. I guess he had the same problem. I flipped the switch and it started. Thanks alot guys!!!

 

I did the same switch thing a long time ago on a car. I must have bumped it off and couldn't figure out why the car wouldn't start. I'd forgotten about the switch. I felt quite stupid.

 

Lol! Well, problem solved.

 

Could someone help me out? I thought it was vats but my security light does not flash. Comes on and goes off when turn ignition. I believe that is normal. Sometimes it starts and others like next day won't start at all. I have turned it off before and it has started again in next 10 minutes of sitting. Is there anything else that it could be? By the way its a 91 GTA

 

Unfortunately it could be a bunch of things. You'll need to take note of the symptoms and how it starts or doesn't and start checking through the systems. Also where the car sits. Hot, cold, damp etc. etc. Could be wiring, electrical components, fuel supply etc.

 

you say it wont start,what does it do.fuel pump prime,starter spin?note any noises.