Will not start, no sound when turn key on

1998 CHEVROLET PRIZM
200,000 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TROY D TOMPKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Replaced battery terminals and car started okay the first time yesterday but soon as turned it off at gas station, and it wouldn't start again since. No sound when turn key on.
Aug 15, 2021 at 4:06 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Just to clarify, did you try to jump start it when it did not start?

Also when you turn the key does all the dash lights, radio turn on?

Usually if the battery is bad you can experience no light or no sound when turn the key. But if the battery is good then it could be issue with a starter relay or the ignition switch.

You might find these helpful:

https://youtu.be/dCjmRL3p4Cs

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

Please let me know a little more info of what you are observing.

Thank you.
Aug 15, 2021 at 6:22 AM
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TROY D TOMPKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you. I figured out that the new terminals put on had paint on terminals and wasn't making good connection. I scraped paint off and it fired right up. Thank you very much for your helpful response.
Aug 21, 2021 at 10:02 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
That's great. Let me know if you come across anything in the future.

Thanks.

https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/2carpros.com
Aug 21, 2021 at 12:05 PM
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