Cadillac Seville, Pontiac Grand Am

Question: 1989 Cadillac Seville

GM Service Iinformation ref: document id#438775

For more than a year we have attempted without success with several Cadillac dealers in Dayton, Ohio to correct intermittent "System Problem" message on dashboard. As far as I know dealer Cadillac mechanics have replaced components listed in referenced bulletin except:

Programmer Central Power Supply, BCM EEPROM

Before doing anything more, might you offer any recommendations?

Many thanks...

Answer: I don't know which TSB you are referring to. I have no listing of that TSB number and nothing with that title. I did find a TSB, number 918112 entitled "Driver Information Center - Intermittent Problem Message". It says, and I quote:

Some 1986-1989 Eldorados and Sevilles and 1987-1989 Allantes may display a "System Problem" message on the Driver Information Center or exhibit erratic A/C operation and set a BCM code B337 in history. To repair a vehicle with this condition replace the programmer with P/N 16137740.

It doesn't mention any other parts to be replaced other than the programmer.

If the Cadillac Dealer is referencing this TSB and they replaced everything BUT the programmer, then I guess I don't understand what's going on. If the TSB says the programmer will repair the problem, why didn't they just install the new programmer in the first place?

I guess if it were me I would tell them to take out all the new parts they charged me for and put back the original parts. Then put in the programmer and if it does fix the problem, then that is all I would pay for.

Question: 2002 Pontiac Grand Am

Hi Vincent,

I really enjoy your newsletter and I think it's terrific some of us have you. For about the last 5 months or so ever so often when I go to start my 2002 Grand Am the engine will not start and I noticed the security light flashing. By reading the manual I have learned about the pass lock and over riding it. I put the ignition in off, then turn it on and wait 10 minutes. I restart it and it starts like a charm. Is there something I am doing wrong or is there another issue? This has happened about a 1/2 dozen times or so since last fall. Is this an expensive repair or something I can hold off on for a bit? I would really appreciate some help with this.

I thank you in advance,

Kimberley

Answer: I think you're looking at a bad ignition switch. There are two thin wires that read the pellet on the ignition key. They are prone to breaking and then can't read the pellet. As a result the anti-theft system thinks the car is being stolen and locks out the starter. I guess the 10 minute bypass wait time is based on the fact that you do have the actual key and no car thief is going to wait around for 10 minutes to see if it will finally start.

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