Pontiac Repair: changing instrument cluster problems, pontiac grand am, instrument cluster

Question
i am trying to change the instrument cluster because the gauges on the cluster won't move. when i changed the instrument cluster on my pontiac grand am se then the car won't turn on.

Answer
Hey Miguel.

I assume you Grand am in between a 1996-1998? The reason it will not start is the theft deterant system uses the cluster as part of the "no start" feature. first off The cluster has to be the same part # as the one you took out.I also assume that the gauges work on the new cluster?? If they don't work either you have some other type of problem then the one I'm thinking about. After that all you have to do is try to crank the car to start it and just release the key to the run position. The security light on the cluster will either stay on steady or flash for 10 minutes. after that 10 minutes it will either turn off or stop flashing. once it does that turn the key off and wait 30 seconds. Then start the car the security lamp may stay on for that key cycle or it may turn off after a few seconds. that should do it for you. The way the light reacts depends on what year the car is... Good luck.