I have a 1997 Chevy. Blazer with 49K actual miles.

For the last couple of years, during the cold season, I have experienced a total shutdown of the electrical system, usually within 1 mile from home.

Here is what happens. I will start the car in a normal manner and drive off. Within a mile from home, the dash will go blank, the Speedo will go to zero, the power steering and brakes will fail, then the airbag light will flash and within about 5-10 seconds, all will return to normal.

I have taken it to the dealer and they find no codes on the computer. They cleaned the injectors but the problem still persists.

I took the access panel off the ignition switch and blew all out with compressed air and it seemed to take care of the problem for a couple a weeks. Then it all started again. In tracking it, it seems to occur during right hand turns, no matter how big or small. It usually only happens in the first portion of driving, as it normally doesn't occur again unless the vehicle has sat for a number of hours.

The battery is fine as are the connections and the vehicle runs great other than the above. It is serviced regularly and is garaged over night.

I thought about changing the ignition switch, but I don't want to start chasing parts.

Thanks for your help,

Peter

 

Thats a very common ignition switch problem.