When key is turned nothing happens?

Tiny
JAKECARD
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 106,321 MILES
Hello,
I am in need of some serious expert troubleshooting on my car issue. I have an 2003 Olds Alero, 2.2 4 cyl car with 106,000 miles. Just out of warranty. About a month ago I started having this strange starting issue. I would hop in my car to take off and turn the key to the "on" position, everything would come on. Lights, radio, interior dash and lights. Everything. When I would turn the key to the start position NOTHING. The engine wouldn't even try to start. It was like there wasn't even an engine in the car!
It spent the last 5 days at the dealership. Not in warranty mind you. They could not get it to fail so they couldn't give me a 100% guarantee on what the issue was. I wasn't about to dish out 550 bucks on a Body Control Module if they couldn't tell me what the actual problem was. So I went and picked it up last night, drove it home, started it through the evening last night with no issues. Hoped in the morning to go to work and BAMM! Nothing again. Engine is not responding to the start command.
I have read all over the place that people are having an issue with the security system in the Aleros, this is NOT my issue. No security lights come on, also the car wont crank like described in the security issues. My car doesn't do a darn thing!
The dealership was angry that I took my car back and told me that it could be the Body Control Module or the Ignition Switch. Can someone PLEASE help me understand what the symptoms are supposed to be if the ignition switch or the BCM starts to fail? Are my symptoms similar? I really need this car fixed ASAP!

Thanks for all your help Car Dudes!
Jake
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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 7:11 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,549 POSTS
I'm sorry to hear about the frustrating starting issue you're experiencing with your 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. Troubleshooting intermittent problems can be challenging, but let's try to understand the potential causes and symptoms related to the Ignition Switch and Body Control Module (BCM):

1. Ignition Switch: The ignition switch is responsible for sending electrical power to various systems in your car, including the starter. When you turn the key to the "Start" position, the ignition switch should send a signal to the starter, initiating the engine's cranking process.

Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Switch:

No response when turning the key to the "Start" position (no cranking at all).
Some electrical components (lights, radio, etc.) May still function, but the engine won't crank.
2. Body Control Module (BCM): The BCM is an electronic control unit that manages various electrical functions in your car, such as power windows, locks, interior lights, and security features.

Symptoms of a Faulty Body Control Module:

Multiple electrical components may exhibit issues or malfunction unexpectedly, including issues with starting the engine.
While the symptoms of a faulty Ignition Switch and BCM can be similar, it's essential to consider other potential causes before jumping to any conclusions.

Other Possible Causes for a No-Crank Condition:

Faulty starter motor: The starter itself may be malfunctioning, preventing it from engaging the engine.
Ignition relay: A faulty ignition relay could prevent the electrical signal from reaching the starter.
Loose or corroded battery connections: Poor connections can lead to insufficient power reaching the starter.
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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 9:44 AM
Tiny
JAKECARD
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I am getting more and more feedback that the ign. Switch is the problem. I am not very mechanically inclined but I have a few friends that are. Can you give me a estimate on how labor intensive the ign. Switch is to replace?
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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 9:48 AM
Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,549 POSTS
Since labor rates vary so much, take it to (or call) a locksmith and get an estimate. They can remove/rebuild/replace the ign switch. And are generally cheaper than dealers about $250.00
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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 10:10 AM

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