2003 Kia Spectra not wanting to start

KIASPECTRA03

MEMBER
2003 KIA SPECTRA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
80,232 MILES

Not the battery(new)---car won't start when I turn key but all lights are on. Engine will not turn over. I keep the ignition turned a few seconds and then do it again. After some tries it finally does start and with no trouble, except for squealing in the belts. And then that stops after seconds. All is fine afterwards. I checked belts from hood and nothing looks worn-i am no expert by far. My car has been sitting except for trying to keep it maintained by starting, warming it up, and then driving once a week for 60miles or so and of course oil change. Months back my car would only start if battery was charged good but that stopped and now it just won't start until I try turning the ignition a few times. Took it to machanic and they hooked it up to hand-computer, found nothing. And they looked under hood found nothing. -This was a couple months ago.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

First, if the belt squeals for a few seconds, chances are the alt belt needs tightened.

As far as the hard start, have you checked to make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight? Also, check the ground to the engine block.

When this happens, does the starter work at all? If not, I need you to check something. Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for power to the smaller wire on the starter. IF there is power (12+ volts), replace the starter. If there is no power, check the starter relay and then the ignition switch itself.

Let me know what you find.