Slow starting

msvx95 · #1 12-19-2006, 04:45 AM

How do I know if my starter is bad? The car will usually start up 80% of the time on the first turn of the key...every now and then it just clicks and I have to do it a few times, but now my problem is this: When I start the car, it used to start up immediately...it's a sluggish start up and just seems like it's not getting enough voltage... Would my battery be the culprit or should I get a new starter? I'm puzzled...the more I try to start the car, the more it is sluggish...I'm worried one day that it won't start

huck369 · #2 12-19-2006, 05:03 AM

Matt,
Hook up some jumper cables to it, and see if it makes it better, if it does, I'd say you probably need a new battery, but have the alt checked before you buy one, most parts places can check the alt for you while it's in the car.

Of cousre check and clean the battery cables, could just be a bad connection

dannmarr · #3 12-19-2006, 05:43 AM

Bring it to an auto shop with free diagnostics and have them check everything. You can also check it if you have a volt meter. The battery should be 11-12 volts before start up and 13-14 volts once started (estimate).

msvx95 · #4 12-19-2006, 06:26 AM

A guy at work told me to hook up to a good battery with jumper cables..if it starts up fine...I would also agree then that it's the battery. It's good to get two of the same answers.

Dannmarr, are you saying test battery when car is running for the 13-14 volts or just immediately during startup?

I would assume the alternator is fine...I do not observe any dimming lights and the car runs great once it's started.

msvx95 · #5 12-19-2006, 06:31 AM

Hey here's another question..my one visor light is out when I open the flap...I never use them, but is there a way to unplug them? Could it be possible the light is remaining on and causing a slow electrical drain that I'm not seeing??
Just a thought

huck369 · #6 12-19-2006, 06:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by msvx95

Hey here's another question..my one visor light is out when I open the flap...I never use them, but is there a way to unplug them? Could it be possible the light is remaining on and causing a slow electrical drain that I'm not seeing??
Just a thought

Yes, and Yes..
You can remove the visor, and unplug the pigtail, then re-install the visor, 2 phillips head screws, and a couple minutes of your time.