1999 Durango Won't Start
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1999 Durango Won't Start
When I turn the key on the dash lights and radio work and interior bell rings. But when I try to turn the key further to start the engine all I get is a single click and nothing else. After several more attempts the engine will finally start. Help!
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Battery is less than a year old and clean, but the cables probably should be changed, especially the ground cable. Dash lights, radio, etc don't dim when I try to crank the engine. Haven't checked connections to starter.
Last edited by Juls; Feb 4, 2015 at 06:18 PM.
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From: Wisconsin
The ground is important but if power is good then I would guess the starter is dead. You could try having someone crank it whilst you smack the starter a couple times with something, I know that sounds barbaric but sometimes with starters thats all it takes to get it to turn over. Do keep in mind that even if it does start working after hitting it you did not fix anything, you just get to drive it a little farther.
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Joined: Jun 2005
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From: Riverton, UT
Most likely a bad connection, the cables or battery terminals. Also locate the large lugs and clean them and mating surfaces.
You have a bad battery, bad starter or bad connection.
Test the voltage with the key in the on position across the battery posts (not terminals) and have someone turn the key to start (engaging the starter) and read the voltage drop across the battery posts (not terminals). If you see it drop down about 1.4 volts or so the solenoid is gone and grounding or bad contacts so you will need a starter. If nothing then it's a bad connection. Check the terminals and connecting points on both ends.
You have a bad battery, bad starter or bad connection.
Test the voltage with the key in the on position across the battery posts (not terminals) and have someone turn the key to start (engaging the starter) and read the voltage drop across the battery posts (not terminals). If you see it drop down about 1.4 volts or so the solenoid is gone and grounding or bad contacts so you will need a starter. If nothing then it's a bad connection. Check the terminals and connecting points on both ends.
THE ULTI-MOD
Joined: Jan 2007
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From: Union NJ
if hitting the starter with something works then its definitely a bad starter, id replace it ASAP
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Did as you suggested Hydrashocker - no voltage drop. Checked the connections at both ends. Noticed some corrosion and a loose connection at the starter. Cleaned and tightened. Replaced battery cables. So far, so good. Starts right up every time. Will keep my fingers crossed that the problem is solved.
Appreciate the help. Thank you!
Appreciate the help. Thank you!
