How a Car's Starting System Works PART I - Tricks to Use to Solve a No Crank No Start Problem

In this video I go over how your car's starting system works and what are some tests you can do to try and narrow down your problem. There are tests you can do to verify all the different components of your starting system. Including your Neutral safety switch (NSS) or Clutch pedal position sensor if you have a manual transmission, your starter relay, the connectors going in and out of your starter including the A, B and S terminals and your Ignition Switch and your ignition switch.
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VIDEO LINKS:
How to Test a 3, 4 or 5 Pin Relay without a Diagram: • How to Test a 3, 4 or ...
How to Bench Test a Starter: • How to Test Your Car's...
How to inspect and test inner and outer tie rod ends: • How to Inspect and Tes...
How to Remove and Replace Inner and Outer Tie Rod Ends: • How to Remove and Repl...
How to Test Your Car's Battery: • How to Test a Car Batt...
How to Test Your Car's Alternator: • How to Test an Alterna...
How to Remove Rust and Polish Chrome in One Step: • How to Clean, Remove R...
If this video helped you out please don't forget to subscribe, give it a thumbs up or if you are feeling generous leaving a tip by clicking the " i " button on the top right corner of the screen. Thank you very much for your support!
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchetsand Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchetsand Wrenches.

[@mattdloughy5369]

Hands down the most underrated automotive youtuber. Thank you for all you do

[@preetdhillon764]

He is not under rated buddy

[@arabcampers9554]

And this is the reason why I subscribed to your channel 2 years ago , you are REALLY good in explaining things , well done , well done .

[@evansmith2821]

Dude you are so helpful and your videos are so clear and well edited and executed. I even like when you slip some subtle humor in there as well. Keep up the great work! You could easily be a teacher!

[@edwardharvey5839]

Thank you so much for doing these videos, Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

[@jarnjars3070]

this guy makes amazing videos the details he inludes are most needed especially for DIY people! Thanks for the content

[@mrdude3540]

You are awesome dude! I've been researching this for about 2 hours and couldn't find what you have on your video in less than 2 minutes

[@bonferoni6664]

I can't wait for part 2! I like how you cut back and forth from the wiring diagram to the actual car.

[@myRatchets]

bonfe roni glad you like the editing, I figured both explaining on the diagram and in real life will be the most practical way. Thanks for commenting, cheers.

[@engrsaud8773]

Very very informative. I’m electrical Engineer and I was not aware of this. Now I’m fully confident that I can solve the circuit. 👏👏👏

[@williamfaubion1082]

I was stuck on an issue for a while now, and with your first 1:41 into the video you answered my question. I installed the continuous 12V lead but totally forgot the relay lead. Once I put that up, my old car fired right up.

[@robertdepaloma4273]

very informative and easy to understand video. I have an intermittent starting issue I might try this one. thanks

[@als1023]

Nailed it perfect, exactly what I was looking for.

[@bgregg55]

an excellent explanation!

[@thomasldeanjr3337]

Outstanding explanation.

[@marrec8]

Very helpful video great instructions. Thanks

[@BckFvrTV]

HEY, I LEARNED SOMETHING! THANK YOU.

[@patricklitwin975]

A gentleman and scholar

[@austinvillareal708]

I'm so thankful for this 🙏

[@colinlyne1660]

fantastic video really helpful thankyou

[@gerry6691]

really cool on point explanations.....👍

[@josiahcopley4908]

Great video! Really helpful.

[@jreeze568]

I like this schematic because it makes understanding on how the starter motor works.

[@fieldsofomagh]

Just bought a used car, 2008 Toyota. Sometimes it would start and then only dash lights.Tried to find the cause but to no avail.Watched this video about starting and the clutch switch. Went out now in the freezing cold at 11.30 at night and tried out the theory. Clutch up, no start Clutch down no problem. Sure saved my bacon. Thanks for that.

[@domenicocascone4096]

Absolutely great video beautiful explanation you just got a new subscriber

[@jamescutler2991]

Good diagram, easy to follow

[@erichenry3794]

Brilliant videos man.

[@grasshopper3085]

You're awesome, thanks for sharing this.

[@anti0918]

Great explanation, thanks!

[@myRatchets]

anti0918 np, glad you liked it. cheers

[@qrs_tuv1925]

Awesome.thank you

[@stangy904]

Great vid thank you

[@preetdhillon764]

Bro you r killing ........🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Absolutely spot on

[@neppy5]

really enjoyed this video, very informative, diagram helped a lot, very glad I subscribed to your channel RatchetsAnd Wrenches great for newbies like me, thank you!

[@myRatchets]

neppy5 sweet, welcome aboard. Thanks for commenting.

[@jasonrbodie]

Great job with the videos man. I just watched my second one and I'm already a fan. One thing though your links arent actually working. It shows the video at the top left/right or wherever but it doesnt actually link to the video. Its just the video with no link.

[@mahlatsnyapele2989]

nicely simplified 👊

[@thomson4420]

really good.

[@kobosk.d8808]

Wow the besttttt video everrr

[@carslover3509]

great great information thanks friend

[@myRatchets]

amjad amj np, thanks for watching and commenting. cheers

[@richardmcelroy6574]

Really like the way he narrates. He is very cautious. Slap on a disclaimer in the beginning and end and be done lol

[@interludo]

good teacher you

[@yogiflutes4067]

Nice Video

[@Carlostype]

Nicely explained as you said jumping from relay base is very useful usually load side pins are 87 and 30, careful not to spread the terminals. Fuel pump relay base testing is another good one, where you can check amperage through pump and ohm it out without dropping tank and diagnose bad wiring or pump. There some great tutorials on youtube, thanks ww

[@myRatchets]

Typey1 yes, good idea on the fuel pump testing from the relay. will use that in the crank no start video. Thanks for watching, cheers.

[@LifeEnTierra]

Awesome video

[@myRatchets]

Andrew Rodriguez thanks, glad you liked it. cheers

[@DigitalMediaCanada]

I have a theoretical question: in the "start" circuit, what limits the amount of current flow- from the battery through the start switch, clutch switch (manual transmission) through the starter relay to ground? There must be some sort of resistance load so that unlimited amps don't melt the components and wires? What is it? Lastly, great videos. I've learned so much from your channel!

[@randy80ism]

@ thank you RatchetsAnd Wrenches

[@artofficialbrain]

Excellent video. The most well explained I've seen. I do have a unique question. I have a truck that was in the flood of Hurricane Harvey and while the car is running the starter engages the flywheel randomly. I've already replaced one starter, the lock cylinder, ignition switch, and relay. Do you have any theories?? It's a 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. My gratitude to you!!!

[@im7401]

Thank you another brilliant informative video. I subscribed. So if I can start my engine using the flywheel but not with key does this mean my starter solenoid is ok, but maybe the trigger wire is not getting 12v.

[@YagamiDarkHeart]

Excellent videos, hopefully it will help me check out my car :D

[@princesshuwa5539]

i really like your presentations on ignition switch its very clear and useful

[@poinsettias]

Awesome

[@micromaster9629]

Oh my God you are real hero.

[@myRatchets]

Micro Master Super Ratchets is my name :-)

[@bernardbilip2571]

Very good. My engine is still running when the key is in off position. Where can I start troubleshooting. Thanks

[@nidalayoub8980]

Ratchets & Wrenches ; you are really an awesome handsome man. I really appreciate what you 're doing, and you are one of the best mechanics that I always watch such as Eric the car guy ,Rex fix , and a couple of two excellent mechanics that I don't remember their names now. I like all of your videos ; they are very much accurate, detailed ,excellent filming or video tapping and educational . You are a real teacher and instructor. Thank you a lot buddy.I have a question: I have a car that the trigger wire from the starter is not connected to either the battery or the relay; my question is :when I turn the key to start the car, it starts as if the trigger wire is attached as your drawings show; how come the car starts?Of course ,I have lots of questions to ask, but since I just subscribed to your page, I will wait and ask them one at a time.Thank you friend

[@jameswroberts81]

This is awesome. Hello. I am currently trying to find the root off the issue of my no start problem. I have tested everything up to the point of the signal cable. When you test the voltage you get voltage of 6v in the on position and it stays the same when you turn it to start. I would assume it should be 0v in the on position and then it should supply 12v when you turn to start. What would cause that?

[@leonardtamraz675]

Great video but the ignition switch should be grounded somewhere as well right ?

[@whuzup3]

Great video! I recently had to change the tumbler behind the ignition cylinder and now my car won't do anything. I have a 2000 Avalon and the power door locks won't work like there's no power. I think the alarm may be activated. Any suggestions? The security light is flashing. The temp needle is all the way to H the fuel needle is all the way to full and the RPM and speed needles are straight up to center.

[@ssenyonjopaul9961]

God bless you

[@dalenassar9152]

Thanks so much---FINALLY---someone who can draw a schematic and show it all so plainly in a diagram. OK, the problem I am having with a 2004 Toyota Corolla starting problem: I replaced the ignition switch and the problem remained: Intermittently, when the key is turned to the start pos. NOTHING happens. Other times all works fine: about 50/50. This may be very important...I finally found that tapping the starter lightly works consistently...so far (2 days). AND I DO MEAN LIGHTLY: When it would not start, I had someone hold the key in the start position and just when the hammer barely tapped the starter, it turned right over and started. I would bet a good thump with your finger would do it!! So, weird! After I replace the starter, I would like to replace the starter relay IF I COULD ONLY FIND IT!!! Been looking for it the whole time--WHERE IS THE DARN THING? Nobody else or data sheets, etc. can properly locate it either.

[@axoliminator]

if your car has a manual it should be in there somewhere. There's a chapter with all the relays, locations of them and even voltages/amps if i'm not mistaken

[@leelomchen3119]

damn good!

[@dannysa503]

Ratchets and Wrenches do you know, or had experienced a car suddenly shutting off on you while driving because of the alarm system relay going bad. I have 06 pathfinder and it did that. Starter,battery,alternator,fuel pump,fuses are good.( need to (check relays thou) Any ideas/ suggestions or experiences you can share will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your video!! I'm learning a lot!☺

[@sandinistaridriguez840]

thanks for the video i have a similar problem wiht a2004 ford Explorer so if the problem is the nss is it going to give me any codes or no because a did evrithig you explain in the no crank no estar video and it dint estar but a used the scanner or i scan the car and it dint give me any codes thanks god blest you

[@gustavomarcelo7250]

Hi. In this case where does the CAS module located and the function of it?

[@geoff3172]

Is there a test for a starter with an suspect internal short, causing the mega fuse to blow

[@ifecojahs8151]

I should be the one who says Thank you, Thank you!

[@myRatchets]

Ifeco Jahs haha np, glad you liked the video.

[@jamiegarcia5509]

Question: I am currently attempting to replace my 2002 Oldsmobile Aleros ignition lock cylinder without a key! I am having to drill through the damn thing. (Yay, so fun! Not.) My question is does the cylinder need power in order to turn it to the on position???

[@theresa4079]

Hello, I have a big question. We are working on an '85 El Camino. We are replacing the starter. We got the old one out and the new one is up in position. There is obviously a big thick wire that hooks up from the battery. That is the only wire we are sure of where it goes. There are 2 other wire connections from the vehicle to hook to the solenoid?. One is a double wire hooked together and the other is a single wire. We screwed up and didn't take a pix of the wires when he FINALLY got it out.. after an hour of trying! our bad. Any chance you could post a pix of where the wires go on the solenoid(?) unless they go on the starter, which I don't think they do. ANY help you can give us would be GREATLY APPRECIATE! Thank you and God Bless

[@Fwatson757]

What if my car starts cranking in the key on position and not the start position?

[@sogbryan6633]

@Ratchet And Wrenches **No Crank** What to do if you have no Constant Power at all? I did use a jumper wire and stupidly just went probing around. (07 Honda Accord V6). I do however have 2 power pins when in crank position (test light). But I have NO GROUND on the relay circuit. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your video's!!

[@enriquegonzalez2540]

I,disconnected the negative cable on 2000 Toyota Tundra pulled out the starting relay is a 4 prong relay but with the voltmeter going from the neg batt post to each socket terminal of the relay base i'm reading 12.8 volts . I believe this reading should be present only at one slot not all four .Why is this happening ?Ignition switch is off.

[@lostNomad1]

So recently I hooked up a battery wrong on a 91 motorhome with a 460 ford big block. Tried to start it something went it wasnt until I got under the rv and found the red is grounded and the black went to solenoid. Now I have power at the starter solenoid. But NOTHING else works no lights dash or headlights I mean nothing works key on no power anywhere. But I do have 12v power to the solenoid. If I am understanding this correctly I'd have to assume the ignition switch is bad is this correct? I'm going to continue watching these and try to follow it thanks for the uploads you have a new subscriber now.

[@DaasmangiDIGBYHoleong]

You have cooked your ECU (car computer)... sorry mate that cost a lot of money... very expensive mistake

[@mariemedinavd]

What can I do when the ignition cylinder and keys were replaced due to attempted theft, how can I program the new keys? I have replaced the batteries new on 2000 Ford excursion, thank you

[@zoomjoo]

Hey Iman, my key is stuck in the ignition, wont be released or turn past ACC. When I pull the cabin fuse that controls the mechanism (i'm not sure what it is) it makes a click sound. When I remove the fuse, the key comes out. I replaced the BTSI, the shifter works fine. The clicking is coming from the steering column area... any tips? Thanks

[@qrs_tuv1925]

I would love to mod. my car start Sys by removing starter and using the old hand crank or cable pull start system thereby eliminating the need to haul a heavy battery everywhere. to me it seems like silly excess.

[@meljenkins1016]

I have an intermittent issue during start up. When I turn the key the engine will start but sometimes the engine will crank but it will not start. The security light will turn off when the key is inserted meaning it is the right code and the engine will crank but sometimes it will not start. Once it starts it is fine and runs ok meaning also the fuel pump is OK. I assume the ignition switch is on it's way out ? I have a 2010 Toyota Camry and the key has a transponder and it has no battery in it. How can a key with a transponder that uses no battery that transmit the correct code go bad even though the engine cranks but will not start?

[@dgagne8]

So, how does someone diagnose an issue with a fender-mounted starter relay (starter solenoid)? I have a 1996 Ford E-150, and this test isn't representative of my vehicle's configuration.

[@vicky-nc3to]

i have seen 2 starter relay in cars... any idea how it works ?

[@budgreene8824]

I just did a partial rebuild on a 1993 corolla 1.8L (head gasket, valves, rings, rod bearings, and oil pump), and I can't get the starter to work. I ran through your trouble shooting procedure. I confirmed that the battery is good, the starter is good, the starter relay works properly, and the starter is grounded well. When I jump the switched posts in the relay I get 12.4 volts to the signal wire. When I connect it to the starter and jump the relay nothing happens with the starter, but the chime starts dinging, all the dash lights come on, and the temperature gauge goes all the way up. When I put the relay back in and try to start it with the key, the check engine light and the low oil pressure lights both go off, the temperature gauge only registers a little below normal temp, and the radiator fan comes on as soon as the key is in the "on" position. Also the headlights don't dim when I turn the key. The radiator fan continues to run even after the key is removed and doesn't stop until I disconnect the negative battery terminal. I've gone over all the under-hood connections and I'm confident I have everything connected correctly. What am I missing?

[@budgreene8824]

I just watched your first video on the subject. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIO4maRtqL2BeNE I did not have a good ground. I had followed Haynes' procedure and was misled. When I checked for ground the way you showed I had about 30 ohms resistance. Fixed that, and now she cranks. Thank you! You definitely earned a new subscriber. I have a much better understanding of automotive wiring now.

[@mirrafiullah2832]

My 2013 corolla doesn’t go to park. Everything works fine and linkage cable good but still no parking. Please tell me what to do. Thanks

[@michelef.8490]

My 1992 940 turbo dies when I make a right hand turn only. Is it the Ignition switch? The battery is new, the alternator is new. It starts with no problem.

[@im7401]

Thank you for the informative videos. Can anyone please help. My battery voltage is 12.67v and when i start the engine the voltage does not seem to change. When I checked the voltage from the leads without being connected to the battery it was over 18v. Is this a bad Rectifier/ Regulaor on the alternator. Could a fuse be blown. So battery does not seem to charge. I cannot start the engine using the ignition key. I have a 25hp mariner efi cdi elpt. The tilt switch is also totally non responsive. I have come accross people with a similar problem who changed a fuse and problem solved. But where do I find the fuse. I can start the engine no problem with the pull cord on the flywheel and engine runs without a hitch.

[@givethanks6714]

My car had alternator problem, but it was hit by a hammer and then working. Then suddenly one day couple of weeks later, no crank. Was able to force start downhill in 2 gear and and now some days later I checked the voltage on the battery and it was fine, then suddenly it started (with the key) after that, like nothing was wrong and still is. Do you know what can cause such? Don't feel safe stopping the car everywhere, in case its gonna go back to no crank. Thanks for good video!

[@myRatchets]

+razors4edge I have a video on how to check a car battery, I would start there. Also watch my video on no crank no start diagnosis. gl

[@MouadAwad]

Can you explain how the car shuts off exactly?

[@randy80ism]

I have an issue with the Nissan 2006 Altima 2.5 liter it clicks won't start. But most of the time it will start if you turn the key switch off and on off and on eventually I'll start up. could it be some sensors again. "crank and cam?

[@myRatchets]

+ANDY RIVERA If it only clicks and does not turn over it's not a sensor issue. I have video on how to diagnose a No Crank No Start condition, you can see it if you do a search in my channel. GL

[@sosscs]

I don't understand why when you jumped the starter relay the engine didn't start on only cranked

[@davidmaruca]

I changed my computer in my ford expedition 2004 it won't start so I put the old one back in and it fired right up

[@komaravakaba5859]

J’aime beaucoup mon travail là et j’aimerais travailler avec vous pour avoir plusieurs expériences

[@danamiller7309]

HiIf I do the relay jumper with the key on the ignition and on the on position then the car should start, right? and of course the car will be on park and the hand break on!

[@myRatchets]

+dana miller yes

[@danamiller7309]

Thanks ;)

[@bdog711]

How about when you turn your ignition to start the engine & your starter continues to crack the engine even after you take your hand off the key. Then you have to turn the key to the off position to get it to stop cranking? Thoughts…

[@TyRC12]

Spray some wd 40 in the ignition. Worked for me. Key started kicking back like it used to.

[@anandasene]

Why did not explain the left side position of the switch.?

[@marcusroth4272]

Why is the engine not cranking and starting when you bypass the starting relay?

[@bt8831]

now to you know all this stuff

[@leelomchen3119]

make a mark by leelom.（2018年12月19日22:08:11）

[@ramonkoeshall6862]

Your links to part 2 on how a cars starting system works don't work. I did like part one I found it to be very informative

[@myRatchets]

***** thanks for your comment, the link should work now. cheers

[@mr.m.5117]

No mention of the FUEL PUMP at all?! What part of the ignition switch sends power to the fuel pump/when would the fuel pump receive power? From computer? Before computer? Directly from switch? A car cranking and not starting like you show, could easily be the fuel pump not receiving power when key is turned. Fail.

[@rahanabandu8154]

We like simpal serkit

[@sylviaann7491]

I have manual transmission I have no key ignition . The only way my car starts is by engaging the clutch!!LOL

[@Jamie_Case]

Starter motor - 'This gear will turn the (what?) on your car and start your engine'

[@Jamie_Case]

ah! ''Flywheel', thanks

[@WV591]

Like i said Auto TU channel

[@hhhydrom3198]

Can you call me and help over phone

[@andyguedea6239]

Speak more clear. Slow down.

[@tteuvky]

You need to have some basic knowledge otherwise don’t waist time here because I am pretty sure you will not understand what he is sayings.