2001 Dodge Intrepid '01 Intrepid won't start

BRADLHANSEN

MEMBER
2001 DODGE INTREPID
V8
FWD
AUTOMATIC
76,000 MILES

Clicking noise from engine when trying to start. Lights are bright, gauges work. But car will start with a jump though.

Same problem occurred 3 days ago and a local shop said it was battery and installed new battery. Now I just got stranded again today with same issue. Car started with jump from someone though, drove it home, shut it off, and immediately will not start again. Headlights come on bright so I don't believe it was ever a battery issue. Could it be the starter? The relay that I'm hearing clicking when trying to start is on the starter, or is there some other location?

I don't think it is an alternator issue either because the lights are no brighter once the car is jump started than they are when it is not running and the headlights are turned on.

Is the starter/regulator the most logical next step? Or should I be looking elsewhere? No check engine light or dummy lights or gauges indicate any problems. PLease help!

1 Reply

CH112063

MECHANIC
1,320 POSTS

I'd be glad to help. Your car not starting is and was my whole working life's objective to fix, well not exactly yours and you may have a good battery, a good starter and relay, and a bad cable. Both battery cables could be corroded internally. Jumping helps, because the car that jumps may find a different path to your starter. Also the other car is using charging system voltage, and this is higher, with it running. Take a good look at these cables, terminal ends and the connection at the starter. Corrosion will look green, and you may have to peel open the insulation to test. Starting system battery or starter problems are tested with voltage and amperage meters. Also with a excessive cable resistance test.
You may have a new battery that is bad, or starter, but at least the cables and ends are easier for a man or woman to check, and save some time and expense. No one is born to do everything and I'm sure your job needs you, ok. Let me know if you need help, and check this site for other advice and information.