My car wouldn't start today when I tried to leave work, but then about 15 or 20 min. later is started like nothing was even wrong. When it didn't start, the starter didn't even try as if the VATS was telling it not to start, but the car had power (lights, dash, stereo, etc.). I thought it would be odd for one of those parts just to fail out of the blue and the car started right up in the morning and at lunch and hasn't given me any problems. My questions are where exactly are the VATS and clutch switches located and how can I test them?

I know the ignition switch is on the steering column and since that's kind of PITA, and I suspect one of the other problems first I'd like to know how to test them incase I continue to have problems.

Thanks.

 

The clutch switch is on the pedal assembly, up against the firewall, the pedal depresses the switch when you step on it. You can test it with a DVOM, for continuity when the switch is closed, or you can bypass it with a jumper wire when you are having problems, and see if the car starts. The relay for the VATS, at least the starter disable part of the VATS is behind the kick panel on the driver side. The easiest way to test the relay, and also the VATS, is to bypass the relay with a jumper wire. If, at that point the car cranks but will not start then you know it's a VATS problem. If it cranks and starts, then it's the relay. Good luck.

 

http://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/tech/vats.shtml


This should also help some.