Hey everyone I have a 1989 Iroc-Z 5.7l 350ci and I really need some help. So two days ago I tried to start my car and every time I tried I had to turn the key twice since it wouldn't run the first time and me of course being me just dismissed it. But now my car won't start at all and I really need help. So I'm almost positive it isn't the VATS because the security light doesn't stay on and I tried the spare key I had made and when I turn the key to run nothing happens, the gauges seem to be working the lights turn on but no noise, no nothing. I turned the headlights on and tried to crank it and the lights did not dim so it looks like the key being turned to run isn't being registered. So I'm guessing it could be the starter and less likely the relay. I also tried to start the car in nuetral so I'm assuming it isn't the nuetral safety switch. Has anyone else here had a similar problem? And also where do you think I should start?

 

Update: The car starts up now, but not every time, sometimes I just hear the clicking of the solenoid, other times nothing at all, and ever once in a while it'll start up. So I'm guessing I need a new starter or there's either a bad ground or corrosion where the wire connecting to the starter from the battery is.

 

Check all the wires going to the starter and make sure they aren't loose or corroded. That's where I'd start.

The car not doing anything when the key is turned is a prime example of the wiring bad at the starter. Either broken, corroded or loose. It's also possible the solenoid is bad after years of being heat-soaked by the exhaust so not it starts sometimes, but not all the time. Next time it doesn't start, bang on the solenoid and then try and start it.