Ask Your Car Question. Car Experts Answer You ASAP.

(Not a Car Question?)

I have a 2003 Pontiac Grand AM. My issue is that when ...
Sent to Car Experts April 02 12:16 AM

I have a 2003 Pontiac Grand AM. My issue is that when I go to trun it on the dash lights come one it is just that there is no clicking or even an attempt to turn over. What is the problem?. Jennifer

 

Optional Information:
2003 Pontiac Grand Am SE V-6

Already Tried:
jumping the car.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $10
Answer
April 2 12:34 AM (17 minutes and 27 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark
Jennifer,

When you turn the key forward, do all the dash lights dim down? If so, then you probably need to replace your starter.

If the lights don't dim, the problem is probably the fuse or relay. You can locate any needed fuse info in your owners manual. Possibly a faulty ignition switch, but that's highly unlikely.

Oh, one more thing. Please lift up the hood and look at the battery terminals. If you see any corrosion (looks like white crust) on the terminals, the current from the battery to the alternator will be hindered. To remedy this, put baking soda on the terminals. Then pour regular Mountain Dew on the baking soda. You'll see alot of foaming, but that's just the corrosion gettin' ate up :-) Rinse with some water.

Good Luck,

Liddy
Picture
Liddy -- Backyard mechanic -- 100% Positive Feedback on 9 Car Accepts
Many years of fixing what was broke
Reply
April 2 12:40 AM (6 minutes and 40 seconds later)
         
Reply to Liddy's Post: So if the dash lights do not dim then it is most likely the ignition switch?...I just want to make sure because with my husband out to sea and this being the only car we have...I have to make sure that it is the right parts that I have to get...
Thanks
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
April 2 1:10 AM (29 minutes and 47 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Jennifer,

If the lights don't dim, its most likely the fuse or relay. To locate a particular fuse, refer to the index of your owners manual. It COULD be the ignition switch, but trying the fuse or relay will be a less costly (and more likely) fix. Plus, you'll know where to go from there :-)

Double check the terminals, too.

LiddyBea
Picture
Liddy -- Backyard mechanic -- 100% Positive Feedback on 9 Car Accepts
Many years of fixing what was broke
Think you can answer this question?
Login or Become an Expert

Related Answers

 

DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the Just Answer service comes from those individuals, not from Just Answer!, and that Just Answer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on Just Answer! are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. Just Answer! is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.

Just Answer! > Car Repair