2002 Cavalier with 48,000 miles. Slow to start

SONNYLONDON

MEMBER
2002 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Hey guys,

Not very knowledgeable about cars, so I wanted some input before doing anything.

2002 Cavalier with 48,000 miles. It is slow to start and when it does start, the clock resets itself to 12:00. It first only did the 12:00 reset every once in a while, now it is each time it starts.

I'm thinking it needs a new battery. Could it be something else?

Thanks. I've sent a donation to your moderators who help out with questions.

6 Replies

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

I appreciate the donation. I first think of the battery too. If it is original, replace it, you get about 5 years out of a battery on average. If it isn't original, post back.

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Tuesday, August 21st, 2007 AT 5:59 AM

POET042005

MECHANIC
134 POSTS

I just wanted to add that Before you replace the battery check the battery terminals to make sure they are 100% clean, if not clean them with a wire brush and if they are clean check to make sure that the terminals are secure and not loose.

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Tuesday, August 21st, 2007 AT 3:08 PM

SONNYLONDON

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks for the timely replies. I am going to the local Interstate Battery dealer tomorrow for a new one.

Even if it is not the battery, the time is now to change it. It's been 5 years.

Will provide an update on Friday.

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Wednesday, August 22nd, 2007 AT 5:42 AM

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Wise choice Sonny, Interstate is a good name. It's the ONLY one we sell.

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Wednesday, August 22nd, 2007 AT 7:31 PM

SONNYLONDON

MEMBER
3 POSTS

It was indeed the battery. The mechanic also said that there was some wear with the starter and that may go out sometime in the near future.

Interstate battery 5 year: $82.95
Charging and installing battery: $22.50
PA sales Tax (6%): $6.32
Donation to 2carpros. Com: $5.00

Total: $116.77

Overall, not too bad. I heard about these guys online when I posted a local notice asking for a honest mechanic. I chose the one that was closest to me that worked on law enforcement vehicles. I figure if the police departments trusted them with their cars, I should trust them with mine.

While I could have put the battery in myself, I don't mind spending $20 and change for someone to make sure that is indeed the problem.

Thanks for your help and timely response. I appreciate it!