What could be preventing engine cranking on my 89 corvette?

Asked by dgrapevine Aug 09, 2017 at 11:16 AM about the 1989 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I installed new battery in my 89 corvette and engine will not crank. it is similar
to having the VATS active. all electrical works fine, dashboard lights up,
headlights function. I have 2 coded keys and neither will crank the engine
when i switch to start on ignition. could there be a fuse or something?
corvette only with 17K miles. it does do a lot of sitting in garage but strange
that even when i wait for security to reset, there is still no engine cranking.
Really need some help. i don;t want to have it towed to chevy dealer.

3 Answers

51,275

I'm not sure, but I think after replacing a battery, some car computers need to be sinked with the new battery. If you have a service manual, check there. If not call the local Chevy dealership and ask a knowledgable, knowledgable, service writer it that is the case and how to sink it. On my 2014 GMC that is the case, and I'm not sure how far back that computer feature went. Next,: Why was that battery changed? Just because, or for the same issue? Did you test the old battery? Also if you let it sit for a while, you might consider hacking up a trickle charger to it to keep the battery fully charged. If the replaced battery is not fully charged, the computer will not start the car, but run the lower drawing electrical equipment. Check the battery charge also. Then if that does not work, are you getting power to the solenoid? It may be on the far outside, a computer sensing issue. Before pouring a ton of money into changing parts that are not needing replacing, it might be better to tow it to a very good mechanic, not necessarily a dealer. sometimes a good mechanic can fix it at less cost, and the difference may be the cost of a tow. Check around, ask questions, and made an educated decision.

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