Will not start and only half fuses get power

2004 BUICK RENDEZVOUS
207,000 MILES • 3.4L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Blew cigarette lighter fuse, replaced and now car won't start. Only half of the fuses in both fuse boxes have power.
Sep 23, 2021 at 5:13 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

I am assuming you did not have this no start issue before the fuse replacement, right?

When you turn the key what does the vehicle do? Does it crank over and not start? or do you just get clicks?

The trick would be to figure out which fuses are not getting power and or what components are not functional.
This could have blown fuses for the ignition switch. Or other components.

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

I have attached the complete fuse chart for your reference.

Please let me know little more information.
Thank you.
Sep 23, 2021 at 5:34 AM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Okay, my daughter stated that sometimes the battery light would come on. Also the steering wheel would lock up and make it hard to start car. But also sometimes wouldn't start right away or not at all had to have it jumped and it started. That's what she reported after the fact. I checked fuses and only some get power. And bought a new relay which matches the 8 between both fuse boxes and one by one changed old with new and no change bought a new battery and everything still the same battery light comes on and no start just a hum and a click from relays.
Sep 23, 2021 at 9:43 AM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
So when you try to start it, does it click from the starter solenoid or the starter relay under the dash?
If the starter solenoid clicks then you know you are getting power to the starter. Then the issue might be its either not getting enough power to crank the engine or the starter is faulty.
I have seen many fuses blown in cars that someone tired to jump start it backwards.
If only the relay under the dash clicks then could be a relay issue. Are all the connectors look clean and in good condition?
Sep 23, 2021 at 1:42 PM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
The relays click, and battery light come on. We put new battery in same thing and still only half the fuses getting power. Battery connections are clean.
Sep 23, 2021 at 7:40 PM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Was told maybe it's the alternator??
Sep 23, 2021 at 7:42 PM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
A bad alternator won't keep it from starting. When you have a bad alternator you will be able to get it jump started (as the battery will be dead), but the engine won't stay running. As the alternator is unable to keep the battery charged.
Sep 24, 2021 at 12:31 AM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Okay , I did however jump the starter with a screwdriver and it spun but didn't engage. so I'm going to jack it up and go over the starter and connections. But don't see how that would make half the fuses not work.
Sep 24, 2021 at 6:09 AM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Right the power to the fuses might not be related to the starter issue. And you said those fuses are good but not getting any power right?
Sep 24, 2021 at 6:11 AM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Yes.
Sep 24, 2021 at 6:57 AM
Avatar
EDDIE L RUGGIERO
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Just wanted to say thanks for the help. The schematics you sent with wire diagrams helped. it was a loose wire in the wire harness connector.
Sep 24, 2021 at 1:00 PM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
You are welcome.
That is great. So were you able to get power to the all of the fuses?
Sep 24, 2021 at 1:48 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.