Truck will not crank over new starter put on?

2016 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
100,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
CHEYBEAR1997
So, we had an issue with the battery draining down took to have it tested and it was bad, so we replaced it. Three days later the battery started draining down again. Had issues with downstream o2 sensor which we replaced. Was running fine. The day before yesterday we moved the truck out in the yard to wash it, and it wouldn't crank, Took the starter to be tested and it was bad. Got the new starter put on and the truck makes a click all lights come on but won't start. Battery is still being drained, and truck won't start being jumped. We checked all the fuses with a multimeter, and they are all good. The truck has had new spark plugs and wires, coil packs. Is it possible the new starter is bad or that the alternator has failed? We also have checked all the ground wires and all of them are in good condition no frays or anything and are tight.
Jul 24, 2025 at 9:11 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,496 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yes, a defective starter is common, can I ask which brand starter it is? I would get an AC Delco replacement. As for the battery drain, I have seen the A/C compressor clutch relay stick on and drain the battery down, lets pull the relay to see if the drain stops. Here is the location of the relay, also, charge the battery back up. Also, go over this guide as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-dead-overnight

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Image (Click to enlarge)
Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.
Jul 24, 2025 at 9:49 AM
Avatar
CHEYBEAR1997
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Carquest prem and could it possibly be the crankshaft position sensor?
Jul 24, 2025 at 9:52 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,496 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yes, you may need to try more than one starter from Carquest, the crankshaft position sensor will make it not start and run, but it will not stop the engine from cranking over.
Here is a video you can go over as well:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YRW8fyNudY

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Jul 24, 2025 at 10:01 AM
Avatar
CHEYBEAR1997
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Thank you. I’m also going to use my multimeter to test the battery fuse block.
Jul 24, 2025 at 11:07 AM
Avatar
CHEYBEAR1997
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
So turns out the starter was bad. We went and got another one and still have the same issue. All the fuses are good. It’s now making a one click near the alternator and the battery is being pulled down. Not sure if I need to test the alternator or take it to be tested.
Jul 24, 2025 at 4:41 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,496 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I am wondering if the engine has had a mechanical failure, here is a video to follow to make sure the engine rotates:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oN42gZN6gOE

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Jul 25, 2025 at 9:36 AM
Avatar
CHEYBEAR1997
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
We got it. thank you so much for your help. it turns out there was a wire hidden that had come off the battery.
Jul 25, 2025 at 9:51 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,496 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yes! the ye-ol wire fell off the battery, it happens, nice work. We are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime.
Jul 25, 2025 at 12:50 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.