Will not start

2012 DODGE CARAVAN
170,000 MILES • 3.6L
Avatar
DIESELCHICK86
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
It was fine that morning. Acted like a drained battery. Didn't have power. Got a jump and it started right up. Drove it a good distance and got back home. Turned it off and it wouldn't start again. Figured it had a bad cell in the battery. Got a new battery. Charged it until full. Go to start it and just one click. I put my hand on the fuse panel and all the relays are clicking a few times. Please help.
Dec 12, 2020 at 8:53 AM
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.
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

First, make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. The starter places a heavy load on it. If the connection is weak, it will do this. Here is a link you may find helpful:

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

Next, follow the ground wire from the battery. It will mount to the engine on the upper side of the engine (driver's side). Make sure that is clean and tight.

If that is good, we need to confirm the starter isn't bad. Here is a link that explains how to check it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

This seems like a lot, but it goes fast. Do these things and let me know what you find. Also, let me know where the click is coming from. For example, is it only from the power distribution box or do you hear it at the starter motor as well.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe
Dec 12, 2020 at 9:23 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
DIESELCHICK86
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
I have already checked the battery connection and the charge on the battery. I have checked every wire around that I could access even cleaned the positive going to the fuse panel. I can hear the starter click. I have felt the engine try to move but it doesn't. I have checked every fuse. The starter works just fine if I jump the car. It's not the starter. The alternator is working properly. I have tried a different key to check the security system. It was working fine and just stopped.
Dec 12, 2020 at 10:28 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
If you hear the starter click, it starts with being jumped but only clicks without being jumped and the battery is good, have you checked the ground I mentioned? Also, when you jump start it, where are you attaching the ground on your vehicle?

Let me know.
Joe
Dec 12, 2020 at 11:14 PM
Avatar
DIESELCHICK86
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
I attach it to my battery. I am going to check the ground today.
Dec 13, 2020 at 6:34 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

That is the only other thing that is making sense to me at this point. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
Dec 13, 2020 at 10:15 PM