1998 Pontiac Grand Prix Starting Problem

I think you have a couple issues here. First, you need to check the starter relay. Locate it in the relay box under the hood. Switch it with another relay with the same part number. See if that makes a difference. If it doesn't, you need to see if there is power to the relay.

Let me know what you find.

I have a couple questions. First, I looked at the starting system wiring schematic. On all cars, the positive from the battery is always hot at the starter. What engages the starter is the solenoid. For power to get to the solenoid, it has to go through the transmission range switch. Basically, that is what prevents the car from starting in gear. Tell me this, is the gear indicator showing you it is in park? If you try to start it in neutral, does it make a difference?

Also, I need to know if you have a volt meter.

Before we consider the switch, check something for me. Under the hood in the power distribution box, there is a 40 amp maxi fuse that is wired direct from the switch. Check to make sure it is good. Even if it looks good, remove it and check it for continuity.

No, don't remove any. If you do, it could cause other problems. Remove the one on the schematic and check it for continuity to make sure power is flowing through it. I have seen fuses that look fine but are actually bad.

Hey. I got the pic, and it does look fine, Can you check it for continuity? I have another question, I reviewed our conversation and the first post says the battery light came on, the lights dimmed. Are you sure the battery isn't bad?

No problem... All that is meant by continuity is if there is a continuous flow of power through a conductor. In this case, the fuse. Basically, a multi meter puts power on one side of the fuse and if there are no breaks internally within the fuse, power will come out the other side. Thus, the continuous flow of power exist. (continuity) If there is a break in the fuse or wire, then power will not come out the other end. Thus, an open circuit.

Here is another way to check a fuse using a test light: You basically check both sides of the fuse when it is in the box. If power is on both sides, the fuse is good. If there is power only on one side, then it is bad.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

At this point, something tells me the fuse isn't the problem but rather a dead battery. Remove the battery and take it to a local parts store and have it load tested. That is the first thing we need to do. If the battery is dead, nothing we do is going to work.

Let me know. Also, if you don't understand something I say, please feel free to ask.

Joe

Don't change the switch until we have exhausted all other avenues. It isn't as simple as just a remove and replace. It requires that the new key be programmed to the vehicle security system. That will have to go to a dealer to have done.

Just for the heck of it, have the battery tested. If it is good, we'll check other things. However, something tells me it is weak.

Before you have the battery recharged, have it load tested at the store so we know if that is the problem or not.

Did you put a new battery in it?

On the starter, the larger wire from the battery will always be hot, 12v. What you need to do is have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for power to the smaller wire. It should have 12v in the start position. That is the wire that engages the starter.