First post here -- I've been looking through the forums to try and find a solution and so far haven't come up with exactly what my issue is.

Long story short: Mother-in-law's '97 Camry LE I4 has been "acting funny", i.e., power windows and power locks unresponsive. Then, one day, it refused to start. Cranked fine, but no fire.

My wife and I are visiting the in-laws until Saturday, 12/26. Trying to get this car back in shape before then.

What my FIL did before I arrived: Replaced battery.

What I've done: Diagnosed no start condition as no fuel. Replaced fuel pump fuse (15A), car will start now. I realize something caused the fuse to blow, so I don't expect this to be a permanent fix.

However, I have now discovered that no key-hot accessories (turn signals, wipers, radio, HVAC, etc.) are operable. Constant-hot circuits (brake lights, park/headlights, horn, dome light) are operable. All reasonably related fuses have been checked, all are fine.

My thoughts are as follows: Bad ignition switch? If it were the switch, though, would it not cause a no-start condition?

Security system? This car is equipped with the factory/dealer-installed VIP system. However, if it were the security system, wouldn't that also cause a no-start condition?

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

 

Did the 15A fuse actually state it was fuel pump or something else?

Have you checked the large fuses 40A AM1 and 100A ALT fuse?

The VIP turns off ign spark but nothing else. All no-key hot access will still work.

 

Thanks for the quick reply!

100A ALT fuse is blown -- I did not check it yesterday.

I do not see an AM1 fuse in either the underhood panel or the dash fuse panel. I see an AM2 (30A). The only 40A I see is labeled MAIN.

15A fuse that was replaced is labeled EFI.

Finally, I re-read what I posted... Just to be abundantly clear, the key-hot accessories are NOT working. Constant-hot (not key-dependent) ARE working.

For reference, pics of underhood fuse panel legend:

 

The wiring may be slightly different for the 1997.

The horn and hazard power comes off before the 100A fuse. Same for AM2 30A and EFI fuses.

The ign switch has two switches each powering separate circuits.

AM2 fuse powers AM2 side of switch which is ign and starter.

AM1 fuse powers AM1 side which powers the items below and more:

Look for AM1 fuse in panel having the heater, Ign, Cig, Turn, 40A Defrost, 30A Power fuses.

EFI fuses powers a host of valves in addition to fuel pump.