[Dr K]

Originally Posted by TurboPooch

Get the battery tested first since it is a simple task. If ok call the shop and see if they unhooked the battery, DME, and immobilizer when they were welding on the car. If not, welding voltages can damage them...like getting struck by mild lightning. If they did, then my bet is on the immobilizer or starter relay. Eliminate the immobilizer by borrowing one with its DME companion and key head with the chip in it and swapping out all three.

Steve, can you put the wrong key in the car (with the key's matching DME and immobilizer) and start the car that way? How do you turn the key? Thanks in advance.

Chris - thanks for the advice.

All: does the immobilizer keep the starter from turning, or just not let the engine "catch" while the starter is turning it?

I'll check with the (very reputable) shop about disconnecting the battery, DME and immobilizer before welding.