Car will not start

Tiny
STEVEKISIL
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CADILLAC DEVILLE DTS
  • 94,000 MILES
I bought a brand new battery, just put in a starter and nothing happens. You turn the key to the forward position and the dash lights go on, but as soon as you try to start the car all the dash lights go off and there is no cranking or clicking at all. What the heck is wrong?
Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 6:08 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,645 POSTS
Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for voltage at the smaller wire on the starter. You should have 12v. Let me know what you find.
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Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 6:23 PM
Tiny
STEVEKISIL
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Yes 12v. The security lights is blinking. Could it have something to do with the key? Ignition? Security system?
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Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 6:39 PM
Tiny
CADIEMAN
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,544 POSTS
Cycle the left front door key cylinder. The alarm should stop.
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Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 10:12 PM
Tiny
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The security light is still blinking.
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Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 11:24 PM
Tiny
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Yes.
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Monday, January 28th, 2013 AT 11:39 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,645 POSTS
Okay, since you have 12v to the smaller wire on the starter with the key in the start position and the larger wire comes from the battery positive and should always have 12v, then we have a connection issue that is likely causing this.

First, take a look through this link. It explains what happens when everything turns on until the key is turned to the start position. Take a look:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Now, since the battery is new and checks good, then make sure battery terminals are clean and tight. Next, check and make sure the ground wire that goes from the battery negative terminal to the floor near the battery on the right hand side of the rear seat.

I attached a two pics below which show the entire starting system schematic. I circled the ground that I am referring to.

Check that and let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, April 27th, 2020 AT 7:52 PM

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