Won't Start - possible starter motor problem -1999 Chevy Malibu

5

Asked by Chad Nov 06, 2015 at 09:34 AM about the 1999 Chevrolet Malibu FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My car has been having electrical problems for a while and I've had poor
connections to the battery. Sometimes I would have to move the battery
around or screw the connectors on tighter to get it to start. Last time !
drove it (two days ago) it had a hard time starting and the lights flickered a
bit before it started. Door locks struggle to a bit and lights are dimmer.
Battery had just been replaced a year ago. I removed the old battery
connections and replaced them with better solid ones. Still car tries turning
over and clicks once and turns but lights and electric sounds the car makes
are dimmer and softer. Did a little research and found that it may be the
starter but wanted to check here if anyone has other suggestions. Did try
jumping the car as well which didnt do anything. Able to turn on headlights
and use all electric equipment but it is all dimmer and a little slower.

3 Answers

455

Sounds like your alternator. The first culprit is a dead battery for sure. If you've jumped your battery 3 or more times you need to buy a new battery. Do you smell any plastic smell when your car turns over? If so, that's your alternator. Make sure to look at your wiring harness you could have a crossed wire.....I know your battery is only 1 year old. Use a family or friend's battery and see if your car starts up with that battery first. Go from there.

455

Also, check to see if you have a parasitic culprit somewhere. A dome light, radio, courtesy light, anything that draws power from the battery can be overlooked easily. That drains your battery pretty quickly and this is very common.....

455

Even a one year old battery the cells go bad if you've jumped your car 3 or more times. It's not advisable. Also if you use a battery charger. There's literature about this all over Google..... Good luck

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