WTF...The saga continues

[Grape Ape]

I originally thought I had a bad battery in my H3. I took it to the dealer and they were unable to find a problem. Three days later, it would not start again. I called Hummer Roadside Assistance and they came out to the house. The technician was unable to start it, so he called for a tow. The tow driver shows up, turns the key and it starts. I drive it right to the dealer without shutting it off. It has been at the dealer for four days. They call me today and tell me they cant figure it out. They say that a GM Technician is supposed to come out tomorrow and look at it.
The battery tests as having a full charge. When you turn the key all the dash lights and headlights come on as usual. It does not turn over or click like the battery is low or bad connection at the battery.
I believe there is a safety switch for the clutch that would stop power going to the starter unless you are pushing the pedal down. I mentioned that this could be a problem but they havent been able to give me an answer.
Meanwhile I am stuck with a frickin minivan for a loaner. Out of the 30 days I have owned this vehicle the dealer has had it for 6.
Anyone with a 5-speed have this problem?

[deserth3]

HAve them check the connectors under the fuse/relay box (I think they call it a BAC). WHen I pulled mine to install offroad lights, the connectors weren't properly installed.
The first time I put it back together all I got was headlights and door locks. Nothing at all when I turned the key.

[H3PAC]

I think the most likely culprit is your battery. I had the exact same problem you had and it took multiple tests for the battery to fail. It's not unusual for a defective battery to behave that way. Ask them to just replace the it and I'll bet you your problem won't repeat itself. And by the way, tell your dealer to give you a reasonable loaner. What kind of Hummer owner would want to be seen in a minivan? Do they think you look like a soccer mom or something?

[NEOCON1]

glad i got the auto only exploding front ring gears

[H3slate]

I have had no such problems with my manual. WTF! They couldn't give you a loaner H3??? I got one last time I had work done. Good luck!

[Wisha Haddan H3]

No probs with my 5spd either. But dash lights and power with no click on ignition does sound like a bad battery or loose battery cables. Good luck!

[Nefarious]

I hear those Honda Odyssey Touring minivans are the cats meow. I'd at least ask them to get me into one of those....even if they need to pick one up at auction.

[f5fstop]

Sounds like an intermittent no start caused by the ignition switch module which contains the passkey sensor.

However, there has been some information posted on a possible chafing of the clutch start switch wires, but this usually blows a fuse (33). But might be worth looking at.

[HummerHippy]

Hmm. No problems like that, here. (5-speed trans)

[H3.007]

I had a similar problem in the Explorer I traded for my H3. The battery terminal was warped and even though I tightened it to the max, cleaned it, etc. etc. it would still somehow not make contact on occassion. I'd have to pop the hood and wiggle the cable.

Thankfully, not my problem anymore...

[Agriv8r]

we have had no issues with the 5 speeds, replace the battery and if nothing else rule that out

[Grape Ape]

Originally Posted by f5fstop

Sounds like an intermittent no start caused by the ignition switch module which contains the passkey sensor.

However, there has been some information posted on a possible chafing of the clutch start switch wires, but this usually blows a fuse (33). But might be worth looking at.

The dealership called a liitle while ago and said they were "going to take an educated guess" and change the safety switch for the clutch.
This tells me they still dont have a clue. I'll call them back and mention what you said. Thanks