1994 Cutlass Ciera ignition problem

I have a 1994 Olds Cutlass Ciera S. For a while it gave me no problems, then it started getting difficult to turn the key to start the car. Now, the key will turn just enough so that the console lights up, and I can shift it in and out of park, reverse, neutral, etc, but it won't turn any farther. I was told that I need to replace the key ignition, but I can not find the slot on the column that allows me to remove it. I also tried putting a screwdriver over the terminals on the starter to see if that will start it up so that I can get the car home, but all that happens is the starter motor runs, but it doesn't kick the bearing (or whatever it is) to actually start the car.

A common problem with the ignition switch. This is assuming that you have an ignition key with a plastic/metal resistor in it.

There is a wire on the ignition switch that is part of the theft deterrent system. It is linked to the theft deterrent module by a orange (NOT SIR YELLOW) wire to a connector below the steering column. It is very flimsy and breaks. When it does, you won't be able to start the car or turn it over.

Unless you know what you're doing and can identify the correct connector, have a pro check the harness out. Otherwise, you may set off the air bag system and have more than just a switch to pay for.

The GM solution is to purchase and install a new ignition switch. My 94 Olds Cutlass Supreme switch was about $100. If you search my previous posts, I explained how I bypassed that part of the theft deterrent system instead of paying for a 3rd ignition switch. If you can find someone with the GM service manual, you may be able to do that work around. Otherwise, you're stuck paying someone to replace the switch.

Thanks. Actually the switch itself was bad. We had to take apart the column and the driver's side of the dashboard to get to it. The switch had locked up somehow, but we put a new one in.

Hey man, chill out OK! I HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM with mine! believe it or not. I was soooo frustrated! I did radiator cap, water pump, several thermostats filled coolant alot, you wanna know what the problem was! a STINKIN AIR BUBBLE!!!! believe it or not I know you doubt this info but it is most likely it from when you replaced your thermostat. Mine was bad and then some big air bubble made the same problems occur as yours..like...(overheating, temperature gage moving back and fourth when heat and AC is on, low coolant light on and off. I have a 1995 and the same problem before. I heard from all these stupid shops that I warped my header, and or shot the motor!!!! :screwy: I was like what?!?! the cars in great shape. So I took it over to a friend of mine and he looked at it. turned out to be huge air bubble almost impossible to get rid of, you need a machine. so..he got it out and no problems EVERYTHING is back to normal, please take my advise and get it checked.. for that, dont believe that bogus crap that you wrecked the engine and such...Later

My car is doing the same the ignition is not sending a signal to the wire on starter help plz