2008 Silverado: Turn Key, Nothing Happens – Help Needed!

Chevrolet Models Chevrolet Silverado
1

I’ve been having some serious issues with my 2008 Chevrolet Silverado lately. When I turn the key in the ignition, absolutely nothing happens—no sounds, no lights, just silence. It’s really frustrating! I’ve checked a few things but am still at a loss. Here’s what I’ve looked into so far:

Battery Check

  • I gave the battery a visual inspection. The terminals look clean and connected, but I’m wondering if it might be failing anyway. I didn’t notice any corrosion, but could it still be the problem?
  • I also checked the battery voltage with a multimeter, and it read around 12.1V. Could this indicate a weak battery?

Fuses and Relays

  • I checked the fuses under the dash and in the engine bay, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. I couldn’t spot any blown fuses. Is there a specific fuse related to the ignition that I should check?
  • I’ve heard that sometimes the ignition relay can be an issue. How can I tell if that’s the culprit?

Ignition System

  • I was thinking about the ignition switch itself. Can anyone tell me how to diagnose that? Are there specific signs I should be looking for?
  • Also, what are the potential consequences if the ignition lock cylinder is malfunctioning?

Other Considerations

  • I know some Silverado owners have mentioned issues with the wiring or connections in the ignition system. Does anyone have tips on where I should start looking?
  • Are there any common problems that arise in 2008 Silverados that could cause this kind of starting issue?

I really appreciate any advice or suggestions you all can provide. It’d be great to hear from anyone who’s experienced this or knows what I should do next!

2

I had a similar issue with my 2008 Silverado. First thing to check is the battery connections. Make sure they are clean and tight!

3

Good point! Also, don’t forget to check the fuses under the hood. A blown fuse could definitely stop your starter from working.

4

Another thing to consider is the neutral safety switch. If it’s not detecting that the truck is in park or neutral, it won’t start.

5

Thanks for all the tips, friends! I’ll check the fuses, relays, and neutral safety switch next. Feeling a bit overwhelmed though!

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6

Don’t be overwhelmed! Just take it step by step. You can do this!

7

If you haven’t already, also check the wiring connections near the battery and starter. Loose or corroded wires can cause starting issues too.

8

All this talk about electrical problems has me thinking of starting a DIY electrical repair group! Anyone else want to join?

9

That’s a fun idea! But seriously, diagnosing these issues can be a real puzzle at times. Let’s focus on helping carolyn first!

10

You might also want to check if the security system is activated. Sometimes, those systems can prevent starting if there’s a fault.

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11

Honestly, if it were me, I’d probably just yell at it and hope it started! Haha! But seriously, good luck with finding the issue!

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12

Haha, I think yelling might just add to the frustration! But a little humor helps. Let’s keep the focus on fixing this problem.

13

I’ve had a similar issue with my Silverado. It turned out to be a dead battery. Have you checked the battery voltage and terminals for corrosion?

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14

If it’s not the battery, check the starter connections. Sometimes they can get loose or corroded too, which prevents the starter from functioning.

15

Have you considered testing the ignition relay? If it’s faulty, it could prevent power from reaching the starter. It’s a simple test.

16

Good point! Could be the ignition switch too, especially if you hear no clicking sounds when turning the key.

17

Sounds like classic starter motor symptoms. Has the engine been turning over slowly or making a clicking sound before this happened?

18

Yeah, a clicking sound often indicates low battery power or a failing starter. Did the lights dim when you tried starting it?

19

You might also want to check fuses related to the ignition and starter circuits—simple but often overlooked.

20

Great suggestion! It’s those little things that can cause major headaches. Hope you find the culprit soon!

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