The Pontiac Grand Am is a sedan style automobile. This sedan came almost exclusively with an automatic transmission, power windows and locks and a cargo area in the trunk. The Pontiac Grand Am, like other autos, may show signs of ignition trouble. If you have a Grand Am that is not turning over, there are three places to troubleshoot that should get you back up and running. Stick to the three basics of gear shift, battery charge and fuel to find the fix.
Sit in the driver's seat of the Grand Am and look at the gear shift indicator. Visually check the Grand Am is in "P" for "Park". Push the gear shifter to make sure it is in park and turn the ignition key to start the engine. The Grand Am will not start unless the gear shifter is set to "P".
Turn the key to the neutral position and turn on the lights and radio. If these do not come on, the battery is most likely dead or the terminals are corroded. Open the hood and prop open. Check the terminals for accumulated gunk and crud. If present use the cola and toothbrush to wash off the terminals. The acid in the cola breaks down battery corrosion. Once clean, turn the ignition to start the car. If still no start, the battery needs to be jump-started, recharged or replaced.
Turn the ignition key and listen for stuttering or a start and then quick stall out. Check your fuel gauge to see the fuel levels. The stuttering indicates the Grand Am is out of fuel. Open the gas cap and pour in one to two gallons from the gas can.
Press the accelerator and turn the ignition to start the Grand Am.
