Someone was trying to jump-start my car and sparked the wrong terminal, now it will not start?

1998 MITSUBISHI MONTERO
5,958 MILES • 3.0L • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TIFFANY COVARA
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My vehicle is not starting, but I have never had any of this before. Just had a buddy put new plugs in.
It ran fine after (no more stalling at every darn stop).
But when I parked to use a restroom and got in the car
I have lights and all function, my battery isn't doing a thing but power to accessories. Someone sparked wrong terminal trying to jump me.
But I checked all fuses seem fine
However, I'm not even a clue about any relays that could've blown...help they want to impound my home. Please
Aug 14, 2022 at 11:03 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

If it was shorted right at the battery, my first suspect is fusible link number 1 in the engine room left side inner fender.

If you look below, pic 1 shows the power to the starter that comes from that fusible link. Pics 2 and 3 will help you locate it.

Check that link. If you have a test light, make sure there is power on both sides.

let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below.
Aug 14, 2022 at 10:36 PM
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