1998 Chevy Cavalier IS IT THE STARTER OR THE SOLENOID

1998 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
120,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
HOTRODNANA73
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Battery tested fine. Alternator tested fine. Tried to move it 1 foot to see if starter and had to push start it to get it going. I am a 56 year old woman who has to fix this myself.
Mar 28, 2009 at 7:12 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JDL
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 16,098 POSTS
Hello, you would also have to check the battery cables, positive and ground. You might turn on the headlites, watch the lites when you turn the key to crank, if they stay bright no reaction, there is an open circuit somewhere. If the lites go out or almost, it is usually the battery or cables. I can't rule out the starter itself.

With a manual tranny, check the circuits at the clutch switch. With the clutch pushed in and the key in the crank position, both circuits should be hot. The purple wire at the starter solenoid, gets feed from the clutch switch. Any testing, make sure the tranny is in neutral, the e-brake is set and the wheels are blocked.
Mar 28, 2009 at 7:46 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.