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ellaschwarz5

GMC Yukon Dead Ignition: Troubleshooting Guide

I have a 2003 GMC Yukon with 148733KM on the clock that suddenly refuses to start. The error scan shows an issue with the ignition switch signal. My previous mechanic experience wasnt great, so Im looking for advice on this specific problem. The engine just wont turn over at all. Could this be related to faulty wiring harness or a power supply issue? Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms and can recommend what to check first? Want to be prepared before taking it to a shop.

4 comment(s)

georgdragon1

Working as a technician, I encountered a similar situation with a 2006 GMC Sierra. The symptoms matched exactly, no engine turnover and ignition switch signal errors. The voltage drop test revealed the root cause was corroded battery terminals combined with a damaged wiring harness near the fuse box. The repair involved: Complete cleaning of battery terminals, Replacing two relay switches in the main fuse box, Installing a new wiring harness section from the ignition to the starter This was a serious electrical issue that could have led to complete system failure if left unaddressed. The car won't start condition in these cases often points to either the ignition switch itself or the related wiring components. Before heading to the shop, check these: 1. Battery terminal connections for corrosion 2. Fuse box for any obvious damage or blown fuses 3. Listen for clicking sounds when turning the key 4. Test if dashboard lights come on This type of electrical problem requires proper diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact failure point in the circuit.

ellaschwarz5 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed explanation of the repair process. After reading about your experience with the GMC Sierra, I realized its very similar to what happened with my Yukon last summer. The starter solenoid was making a distinct clicking sound, but the circuit break testing showed multiple issues in the wiring. Can you remember roughly how much the total repair cost in your case? Since you had it fixed, have you experienced any other electrical issues? Im particularly concerned about power supply problems recurring over time, especially given the age of these vehicles.

georgdragon1

Following up on the Sierra repair discussion, the issue was fully resolved by fixing the Terminal 15 ignition positive interruption. The repair cost came to 95 Euro for replacing the faulty cable connections, which was much less than expected given the symptoms. Since the circuit break testing revealed the exact problem point, no other electrical components needed replacement. The starter solenoid and fuse box connections were all functioning properly once the interrupted power supply was restored. Important for others with similar symptoms: A car won't start condition paired with clicking sounds doesnt always mean expensive repairs. Sometimes its just a single connection point causing the entire starting circuit to fail. No electrical issues have surfaced in over 8 months since the repair. The voltage drop tests now show normal readings across all circuits. Regular cleaning of battery terminals and checking fuse connections helps prevent similar problems from developing.

ellaschwarz5 (Author)

I finally got my Yukon fixed last week and wanted to share the outcome. Found a shop specializing in electrical diagnostics who quickly identified a failing starter solenoid and corroded battery terminals as the main culprits. The voltage drop test confirmed multiple weak points in the circuit. The total repair came to 380 Euro which included: New starter solenoid, Battery terminal replacement, Circuit break testing, Labor costs The power supply issue turned out to be less complex than feared. No major wiring harness replacement was needed. The car starts perfectly now and all electrical systems are working normally. The diagnostic equipment they used really made the difference in pinpointing the exact problem without replacing unnecessary parts. Going to make cleaning the battery terminals part of regular maintenance from now on. Thanks to everyone who helped identify the possible causes. Having this knowledge made me feel more confident when discussing the repairs with the mechanic.

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