Security lock out?

NICOLE HAYES

MEMBER
1993 BUICK PARK AVENUE
V8
AUTOMATIC
220,000 MILES

Hello, I drove my car one night to the store and came home parked it. The neck morning it wouldn’t start. We replaced the starter because it was definitely going out. The problem is I lost the original key 4 years ago, the locksmith took 2 hours to make me new keys and get it to start. The new keys didn’t have a chip in them. I could actually start my car without the keys after this was done. I did that often. Now the starter is changed all electrical things come on when it’s turned to on (with or without the key) but when I try to crank it, I get absolute silence and the security lights come on and then off after 5 minutes. Can you please help before I choose to junk it?

2 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

If the security light is not flashing the system is disabled and not causing the problem. It sounds like you have a defective starter. You can be sure if you test for power at the starter when the key is in the crank position.

This guide can help:

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

Here is how to change the starter out correctly:

When removing the starter, note if any shims are used between the starter and mounting surface. If shims are found, reinstall in original locations. If the starter is noisy during cranking, remove one .015 inch double shim or add one .015 inch single shim to the outer bolt. If the starter makes a high-pitched whine after engine start, add .015 inch double shims until noise ceases.
1. Disable airbag system as described under "Maintenance Procedures/Airbag System Disarming".
2. Disconnect battery ground cable and raise and support vehicle.
3. Remove starter braces, shields or other components that may hinder starter removal.
4. Support starter and remove mounting bolts.
5. Lower starter and disconnect solenoid wires and battery cable.
6. Remove starter from vehicle.
7. Reverse procedure to install.
8. Rearm airbag system as described under "Maintenance Procedures/Airbag System Disarming".

This guide can help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Please go over these guides and get back to us.