No start

ADAM JOSEPH JOHNSON

MEMBER
2005 CADILLAC STS
3.8L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
70,000 MILES

You made a comment on another post saying it’s the battery cable, I want to know how to test it. The car will let all dash lights on but when you press the brake it shuts off instantly and goes black. Before the computer was replaced and a sensor and something else. I replaced the starter due to the clicking like a failing starter when I tried to start it but now there’s no clicking at all. I checked all the fuses related on top of the fuse box. My next idea is to follow the wires for a ground and use a multimeter after checking the fuses under the hoods fuse box and unplugging the starter plug in, removing the rubber piece and plugging in to see if that will do it. Alternator is putting out the proper voltage and the battery is fairly new. It’s not a mechanical failure it’s electrical. I don’t want to just drop $150.00 on a part if I’m not 90% sure that’s it.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

It does sound electrical. Often times, corrosion or a loose battery terminal can do what you described. Take a look through this link. It will guide you through the checking/repair process.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Keep in mind, the battery itself could be the problem. If the above link doesn't help, remove the battery and have it load tested at a parts store. Most will do it free of charge.

If you have to have the battery checked, here are the directions specific to your vehicle. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

_____________________________

2005 Cadillac STS V6-3.6L VIN 7
Battery Replacement
Vehicle Starting and Charging Battery Service and Repair Procedures Battery Replacement
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
BATTERY REPLACEMENT

REMOVAL PROCEDURE

pic 1

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable (2).
2. Disconnect the battery positive cable (1) from the battery.

pic 2

3. Remove the battery heat shield.

pic 3

4. Remove the battery retainer bolt and battery retainer.
5. Remove the battery from the vehicle.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

pic 4

1. Install the battery into the vehicle.
2. Install the battery retainer and bolt.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

Tighten the bolt to 18 N.m (13 lb ft).

pic 5

3. Install the battery heat shield.

pic 6

4. Connect the battery positive cable (1) to the battery.

Tighten the bolt to 17 N.m (13 lb ft).

5. Connect the battery negative cable (2).

_______________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Images (Click to make bigger)