Pontiac Repair: 2003 Grand Prix HVAC/daylight issue, digital volt meter, resistor pack

Question
QUESTION: Todd

My 2003 grand prix intermittently will not start with the daytime running lamps on.  When this happens none of the HVAC controls work either.  This includes the AC/Heat or rear defrost.  Sometime after driving for 10 minutes they will come on, other times not at all.  Could this be a relay,resistor pack issue or do i need to be chasing down the electrical connections?  I appreciate your help in advance, thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Bob;

if this car is a high milage car then I would suspect possably a bad ignition switch. when this happens use a digital volt meter and check the voltage at the fuses in the fuse box all the fuses should have battery voltage or at least really close to battery voltage within .25 Volts if not then you have high resistance somewhere in a power feed and the ignition switch is a likely culprit. Also look at the battery connections expecially the (+) cable make sure the is no corrosion and the cables are tight. good luck :)


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Todd for the quick response.  I'm trying to get to the ignition switch to check some of the wiring at the switch but I'm having trouble getting the colling due to the hazard switch.  How do i remove the colling without breaking it?

Answer
check the switch down at the base of the column not at the switch it's self. the switch is hard wires in and the connect is at the base of the steering column. don't take it apart un less you have to. Taking the jacket off the steering column in involved and it requires removinr the ignition lock cylinder first then the jacket will come off the top of the column. there is a hole in the housing the lock cylinder turn it it's on the top use a allen wrench in the whole and press it down while turning the ignition get and pull the lock cylionder out. Do this with the battery disconnect for the car will start on you. good luck :0