Won't start or even try to turn over

Tiny
DAN12
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 CHRYSLER SEBRING
  • 2.6L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 260,000 MILES
So I turn the key to start the car everything turns on as normal lights and radio even horn works, but it won't even try to turn over at all. I checked and there is power to the starter and the battery is fully charged. What could it be?
Saturday, February 8th, 2014 AT 6:19 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,864 POSTS
What's the symptom and which engine do you have? Do you hear a rather loud single clunk from the starter when you turn the ignition switch to "crank"? If not, do you hear real light click from the starter relay?

Do you have a test light and know how to use it?
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Saturday, February 8th, 2014 AT 7:08 PM
Tiny
LESBENN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Remove the starter, take it to an auto parts store, have them do a current draw test on the starter, most likely you need a starter but the current draw test is the best test for a starter malfunction.
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Saturday, March 15th, 2014 AT 10:39 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,864 POSTS
That's not going to work here. If the starter has a problem the symptoms will include it making some type of noise, particularly a single, rather loud clunk each time the ignition switch is turned to "crank". Testing a starter off the engine is never a valid test for anything except that it might be capable of working. You need the load of turning the engine to get an accurate current reading. Typical current for a small V-6 engine with a gear-reduction starter is around 100 - 125 amps. That same starter off the engine won't even need to draw 30 - 40 amps under no load. If you don't understand why that is, and you would like to, I can explain it in terms of electrical theory. It's the same thing that will cause a good heater fan motor to blow its fuse if you lock it up to prevent it from spinning.

In case either of you reply back, my replies will be rather sporadic. I had a major house fire Feb. 28.
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Wednesday, March 19th, 2014 AT 12:23 PM

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