Car ignition not working properly

Just to confirm what is happening, when the engine is running and you shut it off and leave the headlights on, then try to restart it, the vehicle will not start until you shut the head lights off?

If this is the case, how long are you leaving it off with the head lights on?

Also, when you try to restart it, what happens? Does it just click or does the engine turn over but doesn't actually start?

Here is a guide that will help get us started on starter issues which is what this sounds like. Clearly the head lights don't affect the starter operation other than pulling the cranking amps down by draining/using voltage.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Lastly, was this happening prior to the starter being replace or is only on this starter?

I suspect the best place to start based on the response to all these questions is to check the voltage at the starter when this is happening.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Below is the wiring diagram that will help with finding out what the voltage is at the starter which is going to be important in telling us what direction to go.

That is odd and can say I don't remember ever seeing this issue.

However, I am sure we can figure this out.

I suspect we have an issue with the GEM. This is the general electronic module, and it is the only real tie between the ignition and auto lamps.

Take a look at the last attachments. It basically tells you that functionality of the GEM may be erratic based on ignition switch inputs.

So, I think this is just the reverse. The GEM controlled function is causing ignition switch issues.

Does the theft light remain on when this is happening? If so, that is why you are not getting any starting function.

Even if it doesn't, we need to check the voltage on pin 4 of connector A and then 13 on the same connector.

Let's start with this and go from there. Thanks

We should check that and make sure it is not blown but if the auto lights are working then the fuse is fine.

I think you are correct that there is a short, but I suspect it is in the GEM and not the switch or anything else.

Great question. If the short is in the wiring, then that means two wires are rubbed through the insulation and the metal is touching each other. Also, a single wire can be rubbed through the insulation and touching piece of metal, and this is called a short to ground.

Basically, you need to find that wire and repair it or just overlay a whole new wire so that you eliminate the short.

However, in this case it sounds like a short within the GEM itself which means the circuit board of this module has a broken solder joint or some other issue that is causing this erratic operation.

Based on what your vehicle is doing, I would put a GEM in it or contact one of the services that will rebuild them for you.

Just do a Google search and you will pull up a few options.

No Problem. Let us know how this turns out. Thanks