Expert: Cleggsan - 5/24/2010

Question
Back in 2004 I purchases a CD player from Best Buy and had them install it for me.  They said that in 2000 Cavaliers the computer of the vehicle was in the factory stereo and they would have to mount the old stereo in my trunk. Not too long after I did that I noticed issues when it came to starting my car.
(Please keep in mind that I am a girl and dont know all the correct motor lingo.)  My car would have problems starting. When I would turn the key it would make noise like it was trying to start, but would hardly start on its first try.  Sometimes after you get the car started the Theft System and the light right next to it (I cant remember right off the top of my head) light up, but this is only SOMETIMES.  Other times after you get it started no light come on at all.  We have taken the car to the shop multiple times and they cant tell us anything due to no dashboard symbols indicate a problem.
My question is, do you think that something could be wrong with the factory stereo that is mounted in the trunk?  Have you heard of this problem before?  Please let me know if this sounds like it’s the problem.

(I know you are unable to give me an answer as you have not seen my car, but though it is 10 years old, I have taken very good care of it.  The only maim problem Ive ever had was with the air conditioner.)

Answer
Well, first off:  I am not familiar with the issue that you outlined in your question.  Bur, if the original radio had to stay in the car for it to run properly then it would be logical that its relocation could very well be a factor in the car not starting or running correctly because the computer in the car is what controls such things as spark advance, ignition timing and other things.  The relocation of it could have an effect due to the length of the wires running to the back of the car - if that is what they did.

It would be more sensible to keep the radio in the front under the dash or in the glove box or something without stringing wires any further because the wires carry data information and they can be effected by the longer run.

These are just my comments, but I want you to get a second opinion from Ernesto R at allexperts who has lots of hands-on experience with installation of systems where data lines are involved.  He can give you a more complete answer than I.

Ernesto's page is at:

http://www.allexperts.com/ep/835-69262/Audio-Systems/Ernesto-R.htm

Best wishes to you.