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Oh no it's cold and my car won't start.

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Old Dec 18, 2007 | 03:41 PM
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Oh no it's cold and my car won't start.

OMG! Last week I went out to attempt to start my car and she wouldn’t start. I’ve tried jumping my car with my gf’s and nothing. Can someone please help my baby?
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 03:44 PM
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Does the engine crank over?

or just click click?
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 03:45 PM
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Be a little more descriptive. Is the car making a clicking sound signaling a dead battery/ Dying Alternator? Do any of the dash lights in your car come on when you turn your key to the "start" position? You may have a dead starter as well. Check fuses.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 06:35 PM
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Might be as simple as dirty / loose connections at the battery, or engine block. If it isn't cranking over, I would start by pulling the battery cables off the battery, and giving the terminals and cable ends a good cleaning, then put them back together, and make certain that they are tight. Check the charge on the battery, and charge as needed (or try jump starting it again). If it is cranking but not starting, then it is time to check basics, see if you have spark and fuel.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:18 PM
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Sorry fellas.... All lights does come on. The engine does try to turn over but, nothing. Also when I do try to start all my lights either dims or go completely out. I've checked my battery with a multimeter and it registers 12v. Any ideas on how to access and test the fuel pump? I attempted to jump her with a smaller for cylinder car. Does this matter?
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:23 PM
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The fuel pump is under the rear seat, but I guarantee that is not it.

I would say you might not have a good connection. Make sure the cables have a good ground, and let the battery charge for a few minutes before starting.

A good indication that you have a good connection is if the interior lights brighten up when the connection is made.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:30 PM
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you may have 12 volts, but not necessarily enough amps, and if a battery is shot enough it won't take a jump either.
if the battery is over 3 years old, pop in a new one and try again.
don't forget to clean the terminals, and get those $1 felt washers they help avoid corrosion in the long run
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:37 PM
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Thanks fellas I thought the battery also.... The cable was made loose when I was out there. I do believe the battery is 3yrs plus. Could the battery go worse after a season change? What I mean is I went to Advance Auto ( a local auto store sort of like auto zone) the said the battery was good. That was back in July.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:39 PM
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batteries die, temperatures cause issues, and the people testing the batteries are rarely the sharpest tool in the shed.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 07:42 PM
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Originally Posted by internetautomar
batteries die, temperatures cause issues, and the people testing the batteries are rarely the sharpest tool in the shed.
Good call...Also, if it's not a sealed cell battery you could check whether there is enough water in it. It sounds like you definitely need a new battery, tho...At the very least, pick up a J/Y one for 15 bucks.
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 08:12 PM
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Originally Posted by internetautomar
batteries die, temperatures cause issues, and the people testing the batteries are rarely the sharpest tool in the shed.
are you calling me a dull tool?
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 08:16 PM
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Id say its something with the alternator, dont know to much past that, sorry
Old Dec 18, 2007 | 08:45 PM
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Originally Posted by Tquick
Might be as simple as dirty / loose connections at the battery, or engine block. If it isn't cranking over, I would start by pulling the battery cables off the battery, and giving the terminals and cable ends a good cleaning, then put them back together, and make certain that they are tight. Check the charge on the battery, and charge as needed (or try jump starting it again). If it is cranking but not starting, then it is time to check basics, see if you have spark and fuel.
i had a similar problem a while back. i kept hitting the starter, would hear a pop, and the car died. i would touch push on a connector off the + cable ASSUMING the problem was further down. turns out the + cable was a tiny bit loose. i discovered this driving up a hill on a VERY busy highway at night, at which point the cable shook loose and left me with no engine power, no power brakes/steering, no lights to let anyone know something bad just happened. I had to hop out, whack the cable, start up and park in the nearest pulloff, then tighten the cable. been fine since.
Old Dec 19, 2007 | 05:51 AM
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Originally Posted by Mr.Davon24
are you calling me a dull tool?
if the shoe fits wear it
Old Dec 19, 2007 | 09:27 AM
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The OP said that the terminal was loose. Before we condemn the battery OR the alternator, I think that the terminals really need to be cleaned and reinstalled properly tightened, and then the battery either needs to be jumped, or better, charged up, and give it another whirl. If that doesn't do it, then I would think about swapping in a new battery. I've rarely had a battery really crap out in less than 5 years, unless I really abused it.
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