Thread: 1999 Olds Alero. No speedo, fuel, etc on dash and no HVAC blower

My daughters 99 Alero has an intermittent problem. ALL the dash functions quit and the blower on the heater. Then it will magically start working and then stop. I tried wiggling the key and banging on the dash. Any ideas where the dash panel and the blower have a common point?

Ignition switch maybe?

I think you may be right. I stared at the OEM service manual today and all the items that drop off are coming off of pin D on the ignition switch. Any ideas on replacement? Maybe I should try a WD-40 bath first? I read somewhere that these switches are a subject of a recall.

I wouldn't use WD-40 on it, or anything electronic for that matter. If anything maybe try using electronics parts cleaner on it. You don't want to collect dust/dirt back in it, just clean it out. Parts cleaner will dry and leave no residue and not short out any electrical components once it is dry. Might just have to end up replacing the switch from what I've briefly read on the issue.

I found a few links that may be helpful for you:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Erra...el-on-GM-Cars/

http://www.instructables.com/id/Chan...oving-the-Das/

if the switch is like the one on my 2001 gt. I was able to get it apart to clean the burnt contacts however not fully understanding how it came apart at first I broke the casing because of not pulling a metal ring off the front side where the key side would be. With knowing how it comes apart now I would be able to tear down another one without breaking it. Fairly easy to clean the rocker switches.

Fordman, what neat site you directed me to! Thanks. I am now thinking about removing the switch, then performing a little delicate surgery as described by paedbo. Worst case I have to buy a new switch. I was even toying with the idea of wiring in a little relay to feed power to the dead circuit and eliminating the need for any dis-assembly. But if one set of contacts (D) are gone in the switch maybe others are close behind.