Will not start, Service Engine light on, battery light on, ABS light on and security light on?

JOAN COLVARD

MEMBER
2001 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
5.3L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

Door locks stopped working around the same time the alarm started going off at any random time. (Never had an alarm key) We changed 2 relays in regard to door locks. Then the battery started going dead, we would jump it and go on our way. During this time the truck started missing like bad gas, that eventually went away. Had battery tested it was good but still going dead. Then truck would not start with or without jump now needs starter relay. Turn the key and it just clicks.. Thinking it might be ignition switch any clues?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Wow, that's a lot. Are you sure the battery doesn't presently need charged? I ask because a lot of what you experienced can be the result of a weak battery. I'm not saying the battery is faulty. Instead, the alternator may not be charging it.

Disconnect the battery and fully charge it to see if the starter motor will then engage. If it doesn't, we can look into the starting system. However, I don't think that is where the problem is.

If charging the battery allows the vehicle to start, then I need you to check the alternator output which is really easy to do. All you will need is a voltmeter or multimeter. Follow the directions in this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

If the battery is fully charged already, turn the key to the on position and allow it to remain on for approximately 10 minutes or until the security light turns off. Then, see if it will start.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Note: Make sure the battery cables are both clean and tight.