2003 Cavalier Won't Start: Electrical Problem?

EZE

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Electrical/Computer problem
2003 Chevy Cavalier Front Wheel Drive Automatic 85000 miles

This morning my girlfriend's car won't start.

+1+ When the key is turned forward, gauges and lights come on as normal. Radio and other systems work fine.
+2+ When key is moved to ignition, all guages and idiot lights except for check engine die. The engine does not turn over or make any noise. The headlights do not dim. A faint clicking sound can be heard behind the instrument panel.
+3+ When key is returned to forward position, guages and lights behave exactly as in +1+

12/01
The battery isn't dead, I tried jumping anyways but no results.
It seems like if it is the starter, the clicking should be louder.
The connection with battery is screw type, and no corrosion can be seen.
Briefly checked fuses in engine compartment, nothing jumped out at me as bad.

2 Replies

EZE

MEMBER
16 POSTS

12/02
Pulled the starter and got it tested, everything checked out fine.
Saw some corrosion on the positive wire that connects to the starter.

12/03
Cleaned/greased all the starter posts and connections.
There is still some corrosion where the fitting crimps onto the positive wire.
Reinstalled the starter, exact same problem as on 12/01.
The headlights not dimming could mean that there is a connection problem.

My next step is going to be jumping the negative terminals on the starter and battery together, repeating for the positive side. An old timer at the auto parts store said that if the car starts with the jumper in place, it means that there is a problem somewhere in said jumpped connection. Corrosion or a broken wire is most likely to blame.