Poor connection from battery to starter

If there is a poor connection from the battery to the starter, the starter may receive a periodic burst of electricity. This will cause the starter begin turning the crankshaft then stop. It can also create a situation where the starter will "click" repeatedly as it receives a pulsing jolt of electricity.

Table of Contents

• 1. Symptoms
  • 1.1 Engine Won't Start

Symptoms

Engine Won't Start

In order to determine why the engine won't start, listen to the sound it makes when the key is turned. If there is no sound, the cause may be a dead battery. If the engine clicks, the starter is receiving some power, but not enough or an inconsistent current. This will produce a pulsating click when the key is turned, but no engine turning sound. There is likely a poor connection from the battery to the starter. It could also mean that the battery power is low. If a jump start fails to start the car, it is likely that the starter motor is not receiving enough power.

See also starter motor locked up.