Enclave Engine Stalls: Ignition Switch Failure Alert

Having worked on cars as a hobby, I experienced almost the exact same starting issues with my 2012 Buick LaCrosse. The car ignition symptoms you describe sound very familiar. Initially, I also thought it was the ignition switch, but when I took it to my workshop, they discovered it was actually just a blown fuse connected to the ignition coil circuit. The irregular starting behavior and rough running were classic signs of an electrical issue affecting the ignition system. The repair was straightforward, they replaced the faulty fuse and checked the surrounding car electronics to ensure no other components were affected. Total cost came to 52 Euro for parts and labor. Since the fix, I haven't had any starting issues or engine problems. Before jumping to conclusions about major repairs: Does the check engine light come on when these issues occur? Are there any unusual sounds when you turn the key? Have you noticed any other electrical issues like dimming lights? Has the battery been tested recently? Could you share these details about your Enclave? This information would help determine if you're dealing with a similar fuse issue or something else in the ignition system.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Enclave has 196857 KM on it with similar symptoms. The check engine light does flicker when these starting problems occur. When turning the key, I hear a faint clicking from the starter motor area. The battery was actually replaced during my last service 3 months ago, so that should be fine. The dash lights work normally, but I have noticed the power windows seem a bit slower than usual. Based on what you mentioned about the fuse, I will definitely have the electrical system checked first before assuming its a major ignition switch problem. Makes sense to start with the simpler potential causes.

Thanks for those additional details about your Enclave. After hearing about the clicking sound and the flickering check engine light, I am even more convinced our issues were different, despite the similar symptoms. In my LaCrosse case, there was no clicking noise from the starter motor area, which is actually an important distinction. That clicking sound combined with the sluggish power windows strongly suggests a different electrical issue than what I experienced with the blown fuse. The starter motor clicking and intermittent starting problems often point to a failing starter or insufficient power reaching it. This could be due to: Corroded battery connections, Failing starter motor, Bad starter relay, Worn ignition coil I would recommend having the starter circuit tested first. The repair shop should check the voltage at the starter when the key turn happens. If the starter is getting full power but still just clicking, the starter motor itself likely needs replacement. The good news is that while starter replacement is more involved than a fuse change, it is still a pretty standard repair that should resolve both the starting issue and rough running symptoms you described.

Thanks everyone for the insights. After getting my Enclave checked out, it turned out to be exactly what the last reply suggested, a failing starter motor. The mechanic found corrosion on the connections and the starter itself was severely worn. They replaced the starter motor and cleaned all the electrical connections. The total repair cost was higher than just a fuse replacement, but still reasonable considering the problem. The car is now starting perfectly every time with no more rough running or stalling issues. The dashboard lights are back to normal operation and even the power windows are working at full speed again. Looking back, the clicking sound from the starter area was definitely the key symptom that pointed to the real problem. The ignition coil and other car electronics were tested and found to be in good condition. Really glad I asked here before assuming it was just the ignition switch. Saved me from potentially replacing the wrong parts.