So does it turn over now?

 

Is it completely dead - no warning lights, chimes, headlights, radio? If so, it sounds to me like you have a bad connection...possibly a battery terminal since that is the last thing worked on. If it just won't turn over I'd check fuses, then use a remote switch and try to start it from the solenoid. If it starts then check the wiring to the ignition switch and the switch itself. If it still won't turn over with a remote switch pull the starter and have it tested.

 

03SSLE, all that works is the chime when the key is in and the door is open...nothing else comes on. Do you think a wire in the steering column could have shorted out because the car died after I made a right turn. I'll check the battery terminals and see if that works.

 

Sounds to me that one of the main fuses blew. Make sure the wire from the bat to the fuse block is tightened down. And that the Neg wire to the body is secure and not rusted. While at it check the pos wire to the starter.

When you turn the key do you hear the fuel pump start? Have you tried to put the car in neutral and try to start? It's a way to test the park neutral switch if it is warn out.

Other possibilities could be as said the vats or a dead PCM but a dead PCM would not stop the starter. Does the car have an alarm?

 

The chime requires very low voltage, but other accessories use more, try if other electrical stuff works to pinpoint were your problem lies... I think you have a connection problem. Using a multi- meter to check for high resistance around your battery wires will help.