2003 Pontiac Grand Am catalytic converter and ignition swit

SHETOURS

MEMBER
2003 PONTIAC GRAND AM
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
11,800 MILES

Just paid this car off in November. A couple months ago my check engine came on. Took it Auto Zone, they say it's the catalytic converter. A mechanic friend (in another state) said I can drive it til it quits. It quit, but that was not the issue I dont' believe (from what I read online).

Two weeks ago (I'm sweating as its sitting on the street, dont need a ticket) and it seems the ignition switch has gone bad. (Read your forum on this).

Going to go buy air in a can and lock lubricant to start with (wheels are only turned approx. 20 degrees). Tried the turning the wheel while starting engine suggestion, did not work. Tried the spare key. Not.

I would like to try to replace these myself. I'm a 46 lady and smoothly work on my '62 Comet (like working on a Tonka car, so simple). Do my oil changes, spark plugs/wire set/ tune ups. What is the degree of difficulty in your opinion on both items?

Any chance I can get the correct part numbers for the cat convert & 02 (?) Sensor and ignition switch?
Thank you more than realize. Lucy

1 Reply

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,548 POSTS

You have to remove a portion of dash to replace ignition switch.
Best advice is to use car repair manual link in this thread or get a Haynes manual. This will give you instructions and pictures for ign. Switch removal.

However, the larger issue is the convertor, if convertor is clogged it will need to be replaced, but you will need to find out why it became clogged.

Convertors fail because of a rich/lean fuel mixture or an impact to convertor itself (running over a curb and hitting convertor for example).