Q: 2006 Pontiac GTO not always starting up

asked by on August 18, 2016

I got in my car to start it up a few days ago. I turned the key and it started with no problem. The car stayed running. Then a few days later when I turned the key nothing happened. It didn’t start. My dashboard was working though. Then after turning my key a few times it started up and stayed running. Do you have any idea what might be wrong with my car? Do you think it’s my batter terminals?

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Dashboard going out
Hi there. Since your issue is intermittent this would lead me to believe you are experiencing a bad connection behind your dashboard. A loose connection between your light bulbs and sockets will cause this problem along with a fault in...
Chain needs to be replaced
The reason a timing chain can take so long at a shop is because of the large amount of labor that it entails to perform a repair of that caliber. Many parts will need to be removed in order to...
How can I tell what amp my alternator is?
Hey there. You should have a stamp on the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-buy-a-good-quality-alternator) with a part number and amperage. The part number that starts with F3UZ is the 130 amp, and the F1TZ is the 95 amp. You can use either one....
While driving my battery light came on and off, and as I made a stop to make a left turn. What does this mean?
Hi, thanks for writing in. The most common parts that involve this issue are the battery and the alternator. The starting/charging system should be checked to see if the battery is going bad and getting weak. It can then put...
Engine oil leak should I use Stop leak?
I would advise against putting stop-leak in your engine. If you have already done so, I recommend you change the oil right away. Many aftermarket manufacturers are selling products that look like a good answer to a complicated problem, but...
I have an error code P0441. It is recommended that I replace the purge control valve. Where is this located and how do I replace?
Hi there. The purge control valve on your vehicle should be behind the engine air filter housing. You may have to remove the air filter housing to get to the purge valve. The valve is held on by a couple...
When car is shifted into drive car will not go forward when pressing gas it just rev the engine.But when shifted into reverse car
Hello, thank you for writing in. The color and condition of the transmission fluid should be a huge indicator. Low transmission fluid is one of the leading causes of issues with the transmission. You will want to start by refilling...
Turned key to crank engine then realized it has no oil. Do you think it seized or is it ok
If you just cranked over the engine a few times with no oil in it would not cause any issues except you would not have any oil to timing chain tensioners and may have caused the timing chain to jump...
Thank you Tim for your input..It actually is not the serpentine belt as it is on the other side of the car right next to the engin
Hi Luke. Thanks for the reply. If I'm understanding you correctly, the other belt (which I believe is on the driver side of the engine, near the front) is referred to as the accessory belt. This belt is the one...

Related articles

How Can Problems with the Ignition System Cause Misfiring?
Misfires Misfires are never good, and they're always a sign that there’s a problem with the engine that needs to be repaired. The problem won’t “go away on its own” and waiting too long can cause the situation to grow...
What Is the Difference Between a Water-Cooled Engine and an Air-Cooled Engine?
There There are a few main differences between a water-cooled and air-cooled engine. Air-cooled engines utilize an engine cylinder design that incorporates cooling fins all the way around the cylinder and on top of the piston cylinder head. These fins...
How to Replace a Starter Relay
Starter relays are faulty if there are problems starting the engine, the starter stays on after cranking, or a clicking noise comes from the starter.