No Crank, No Start troubleshooting, Is my starter bad?

How to test a starting system on a 2000 Jeep Wrangler 4.0 using just a basic test light. In this video I will be showing you how to quickly locate the problem of any no crank problem, on any car.
Symptoms
- engine does not crank
- headlights remain bright
Fix
- replace faulty starter motor
Tests shown
- how to determine battery state of charge without a voltmeter
- discuss what variables you need to consider when using the headlights as a guide during cranking
- how to test a starter motor using a test light
- how to test the starter ground on the block
- how to determine ignition switch and park/neutral switch operation
- how to bench test a starter motor
Tools used
- incandescent test light
- remote battery jump starter
- pocket screwdriver
Playlist
- Starting, Charging and Battery system problems
• Starting, Charging and...
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- How to troubleshoot a no crank problem (94 Toyota Celica)
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- Engine does not crank (seized alternator) - Mini Cooper
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- How to test a starter motor (no crank from a bad block ground) - Nissan
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- How to troubleshoot a starting system (bad ignition switch) - Dodge Neon
• How to troubleshoot a ...
For more information on this topic, I have written a “field manual” called Engine Performance Diagnostics which is available at www.scannerdanner.com as an eBook or paper book.
Want even more diagnostic training? Whether you are a DIY trying to fix your own car, someone looking to become an auto technician, or a current auto technician that wants to get more into diagnostics, subscribe to ScannerDanner Premium www.scannerdanner.com/join-sc... There is a 14 day free trial.
On ScannerDanner Premium I will bring you right into my classroom at Rosedale Technical College. You will find page for page lectures taken right from my book as well as exclusive classroom type case studies. What is so special about these classroom case studies? I pull live problem vehicles directly into my classroom and we troubleshoot them in real time, using and applying the theory and testing procedures we learn during the classroom lectures. There is no better on-line training of how to troubleshoot automotive electrical and electronics systems anywhere!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. ScannerDanner LLC assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. ScannerDanner LLC recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ScannerDanner LLC.

[@olipirard]

These are damn good explanations. All of us are lucky to have those free online lectures. Thank you.

[@steveallen5496]

Good one Paul. This is the kind of knowledge that men need to know, imparted freely! The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. Thank you brother.

[@baxrok2.]

Great review of the basics Paul. Also, a good lesson on using a reliable basic tool, the test light. Well done and thanks!

[@karlpatch4146]

Once again VERY educational. Your narration is easy to follow for even us semi novice diyers. Thanks Danner!

[@BigDog50001]

Good stuff as always. Just got your book too, great job putting that together.

[@davidgoldberg]

Great video, this one was not over my head!

[@Sandbag1300]

Awesome overview of the starter system and testing the current flow and starter. Thumbs up. Paul, I have found your ebook an outstanding helpful resource as well! Keep up the good work.

[@rrmech11]

Great video for them young green horn mechanics. I had a good time watching all of you guys at ETCG'S get together. I've been watching you for years and seeing you with the other guys goes to show we have a lot in common. GOD BLESS You and them for helping so many of us. 😇😇😇😇😋

[@papatriot9882]

Helpful man. Wacked the starter with a rubber mallet and that was it! I’ll betthe rest of the video was awesome! Replaced the starter and back to new.

[@wyattoneable]

As many Jeeps as you work on I bet you have everything memorized by now. :) But really man, this had so many good points for the common man I can't even count them. I appreciate how organized the description box is as well. Everything you need in one area.

[@renaissanceman7004]

I am watching your old videos dude over and over again even your ads i'm also watching it because i want to learn only from the best, stay safe bro god bless you

[@ScannerDanner]

I appreciate that! Thank you so much

[@nicknicu1787]

Great tutorial for starter diagnostic! 👍

[@scrimmy6969]

Another great video sir. Good to see you and Eric O meet up and go to ETCG's meet and greet. Keep up the great work sir

[@iamchillfreak3443]

Awesome vid as always. Thanks for this.

[@antt5112]

Really nice job, easy to follow and get a good result.

[@RichMarquis]

Thank you so much for this video. My jeep all of a sudden wouldn't start. Been watching videos trying to troubleshoot and came across yours. Saw the part about tapping on the starter. After tapping on it, the jeep started right up. Now I know I need a new starter. This video help helped me narrow down my issue.

[@ScannerDanner]

Awesome!

[@David-yh5po]

Thanks for sharing this video with us.

[@dieselchevette]

This is a great how to. I would add to be extremely careful with the test light metal tip when it is touching the bat+ terminal on the starter, there is a high risk of a high current short there. Also, I do a second ground check by connecting the test light to positive battery and touching that to the starter case while trying to crank and looking for a major brightness change.

[@davesministry7789]

Another good video. Thank you.

[@chunkygrows791]

Thank you so much brother this video saved me time and money, God bless you brother

[@NZdiagnostics]

Another great video Mr Danner! Just a thought to share with those on a low budget. I have a "Mooshimeter" in my toolkit that I use a LOT for this sort of thing. What it is, is a bluetooth wireless graphing multimeter, it's surprisingly cheap, American made and is super handy when you are doing this sort of thing on your own. You can even run two channels at once if you want. It's also super easy to use for a beginner. I am not associated with mooshimeter in any way other than being a very satisfied customer!

[@crazyforcrotchet]

We just come back from my work parking lot my jeep was there since last week and I watched your video and it was the started! So finally we were able to take the jeep home, now is the radiador.. Not holding water

[@4stringbazooka]

That jump pack seems to be pretty awesome for it's size. Start car's even if the battery is totally dead? the one I have the battery has to have at least a small charge in it... Great video man. Thanks for the share.

[@SteveRobReviews]

Nice one Paul and the most needed info for the DIY ers. First time you have ever said hit the solenoid , ha I watched every vid and now you say this. LOL

[@carslover3509]

great teacher

[@samrugtiv5563]

good work scanner Dan old school that's the way

[@JahanZeb1976]

This is a great video and excellent testing technique discussed. This is a common problem we are encountering daily in our service and repair. If I would do that, I would open the older one and try to repair that one instead of replacing with a new one. Because servicing an older one could cast a friction of money than a new one. But may be replacement could be feasible in your case. Regards,

[@Discretesignals]

Back in the day it was pretty common for shops to overhaul starters. Now is it just cheaper for the customer to install a reman or new starter. If you can get parts for the starter, you'll still need to test the armature with a growler and possibly do some resurfacing of the commutators to ensure you have a long lasting repair. The cost for labor and parts, if you can get them, for an $80 starter new that is common as dirt just doesn't seem economical. You also have to factor that the starter on the Jeep looks like it could be full of sand and was contaminated with a mud. Is it really worth your time? If it was a starter that was rare and hard to find, I'd say yes overhauling would be a better choice.

[@leviburlingham5708]

agreed.

[@JahanZeb1976]

Agree to you in some cases where the labor charges are that much high and in a case of a such a bad starter which needs that much repair. In my case, I serviced tons of starters which were sure dirty and they were needing cleaning and lubricating. Little sanding on commutator to clean the carbon traces from. In those all cased it was way cheaper for me and for customer to bring the old part to life instead of going for a new replacement. Problem is we are living in an era where people are not considering their vehicle preventive maintenance cost but they only bother breakdown maintenance when car comes to complete failure. In such a case they pay much more money compared to little preventive maintenance cost which they think a waste.

[@martinguitarhd28]

One of the many uses of a test light.Excellent vid as always Paul.

[@rhdtv2002]

man i have a folder of allot of your videos. they are really life savers. can you do a video that ends up with an issue of a parasitic draw?

[@sn5995]

thanks! all super clear!!!

[@americanpatriot5836]

Great video

[@Pablo_Automotive]

Nice video Paul =)

[@NuManXplore]

Very helpful, thx!!

[@r.mercado9737]

Outstanding!

[@MortoFett]

Nice simply video that covered all the basic, just a couple of questions tho, At 11 mins in you spoke about a possible connection issue on the main wire, i also like to check that i have a good connection on the solenoid wire for the same reasons. A valid test??? Are you just using a incandescent test lamp?? Do you prefer using that rather than a power probe (or something similar) with a power probe you will be able to see 12 volts on the display and not have to guess if the blub is bright enough.

[@dandosreis1541]

great video ! I dig your test light . Any chance you could point me in the right direction to get one ?

[@matutenoel4833]

good video amigo exselente video. tech. buen. video. tech. exselente. lo. mejor

[@trainer2018]

Paul the jump pack you are using, what brand is it again? Do they make a 24 Volt version?

[@jamesbrant352]

Supper clean

[@albertvillar7156]

Hi Danner, can I ask the information about AESWAVE product such as you use for troubleshooting in relay circuit diagnostic tools! to be honest the video that you made on troubleshooting is very helpful in my job as a Mechanic like you! thank you and have a great day

[@WorkingTimbersCo]

I took a multimeter red to positive post and put the negative on the solenoid post and I'm not getting anything so is this my wiring? Positive battery cable heavy gauge must be the issue but at the battery connection I'm getting the 12.6 - So somewhere in between then? Let me know your thoughts.

[@hughvanzyl549]

Nice. South Africa

[@zakk.1134]

awesome vid. saved my ass

[@didtoknan8128]

I watched another video from you where the problem was a bad control side connector + crusty wire. As you said on the other video, it's best to test the power feed directly on the control side post of the starter rather than back probing (or here piercing the insulation of the wire). Thanks a lot for your videos, I learn so much !

[@ScannerDanner]

thanks for watching!

[@Ottonic6]

Didtok Nan - Yes, check the S terminal on the starter... He showed that you had a signal to the connector, but didn't check the signal through the connector on the terminal itself.... Kind of like what he did on the big (constant) stud terminal.

[@ScannerDanner]

In this case, it was a weather pack connector and testing it right on the S post or pin in this case was not possible.

[@Ottonic6]

S. D. - Didn't know that... That is why I watch your videos... You the man, thanks so much for sharing your knowledge...

[@terryharvey8627]

use an EXTENSION CORD long enough to reach drivers seat. one wire to each test point and then one wire to each end of the test light.

[@jesusmartinez5202]

Awesome!

[@jamesdean5087]

Could you post a link where we can buy DYI wiring diagrams for our cars? Thanks Is it posted on your web page?

[@chekelley6861]

I know in Arizona the state library website has Chilton online manual database free to any resident. Chilton isn't my favorite but it's awesome for DIY . I bet a lot of states offer the same resource. At work we use Alldata.

[@2aminitials]

BBB Industries website has TSB's and wiring diagrams. Just need to enter an email address. I've never received any email or spam from them after doing so.

[@d13cab]

I don’t understand what would make someone put a thumbs down to a video like this?

[@leomota5554]

I have a 1998 honda accord lx shut off while driving due to gas. I put gas and i replaced starter with new one. I can hear starter when i turn my key but not cranking the fly whheel. I tested msin relay fuses every thing good. I made sure positive and ground cables are good also. What do you think could be the problem? I changed the ignition also

[@chrisbutcher3170]

I am having about the same issue on a 07 Pontiac G6 Gt. At first it would crank but wouldn’t start. Took the block grounds loose to clean the terminals and after cleaning the terminals and reconnecting there was no crank at all. Starter is good, battery is good. Cleared the codes and now it has a P0851 for the range sensor and it shows 2nd gear. Replaced the range sensor with 2 different range sensors and still nothing. All fuses in distribution box under the hood and in the BCM are good as well. Any thoughts?

[@hondanation9375]

So if your checking for a bad ground with your test light on the ground side and the test light don’t light you said it’s a good ground…would that same test work if the ground wire was cut somewhere? Great videos btw

[@abdalqadr1]

Greetings for you from Iraq

[@ScannerDanner]

Greeting my friend

[@abdullbasitosman5070]

just to know paul, hyundai santafe v6 with little rough at idle, fault codes are all related to the 4 camshaft sensors ( a b1,b b1, a b2 , b b2) scanner showed camshaft-crankshaft synchronize off. is it mechanical issue 100% ?

[@duanedonaldson2262]

For future readers, clean your battery terminals and cable ends at the battery, clean the top of the battery of all the dirt, electricity flows from one terminal to the other and when a battery gets old and dirty, this contributes to low battery power after sitting all night. Battery positive and ground end at the starter and engine block do corrode and need preventive maintenance from time to time the same as the battery terminals, more so if you live in the salt belt. This reply is due to some comments below about when they turn the ignition key and everything dies. To diagnose another possible problem on an automatic is to also try to start with the gear selector in Neutral to be sure that switch is also good and maybe if no power is sent to the starter solenoid when trying to crank, the Park position may be a bad switch. THANKS, SD for everything you do for everybody around the world, Duane in Japan, oh sorry, moved to the Philippines since I talked to you about possibly going to your class some years ago, will be back in the USA, OHIO soon, will catch up with you then bro.

[@survivetothrive21]

Here’s a test for your abilities lol. My 06 Jeep Rubicon is a no crank at the key BUT here’s the plot twist. You try directly jumping the starter, it cranks but won’t start. Could that be a bad relay box keeping it from cranking AND then keeping the coils from creating spark? Fuel pump comes on btw. And yes the key is in the on position. All lights work. All systems work. It has an aftermarket remote start which I’m wondering if that’s creating the issue due to the SKIM.

[@braysanborn6000]

My Tj wouldnt crank ..but starter would click ... Bottom line , positive battery cable loose at starter . Tightened and it started .👍

[@davel6024]

Hey Dan avid follower here this is beating me up anyway 2006 Chevy hhr 2.2 engine went on a very long drive no problem 8,000 miles to be exact this aside got home car didn't even crank nothing just interior lights also dash usual lights and check engine on so computer is good. next after tapping it lightly it went as new. so a few weeks later tried to start it after this long trip nothing (alot of green puss) in all wires on the starter connections couldn't get it all but most of it. now it clicks (which it didn't before i cleaned all wires on the starter, but wont start just click click (lol) made the sound .. to me i dont think it is the starter on the trip a few times it gave me a tad of a hard time starting but nothing serious just bogged a bit to turn over but went just looking for advice on this but looking at the starter more and more and yesterday before cleaning the wires it tried to turn over but wouldn't and just went to nothing again before i cleaned the wires and now i just get a click click...after cleaning what i could get at. Thanks Dan and (great videos) out there

[@treykashflow6183]

Please help have a Ford Crown Vic hear a clicking from the starter and the relay you can feel click in both as well. had starter tested everything works it's a new solenoid and new starter replaced relay as well, tested battery a few different ways & cleaned the terminals. still just one loud hard click tried to start in neutral same thing. Also checked flywheel/flex plate and hand turned motor nothing locked everything looks to be good!? is this a wiring issue I'm missing like electrical?? Maybe a fuse im missing? Please help!! Thanks!

[@neilwilliams8608]

How can I do this by myself? Aesome video. Thanks a lot.

[@terryharvey8627]

use an EXTENSION CORD long enough to reach the drivers seat. connect one wire to each test point and then on other end in cab one wire to each end of test light. will also work for a volt meter test.

[@chicagotom1643]

never had problems when American Motors made em!

[@richardmendoza7474]

Any tips on a Mercedes s430 2001

[@MahkRonAKash]

My problem. 2001 Jeep Wrangler. Put the key in, all the lights come on, turn it to start and everything shuts off. I mean the electrical components flat out die, not just fail to start. Good battery, yes. All fuses intact with charge.

[@ScannerDanner]

you have a main battery cable or block ground issue

[@MARKLINMAN1]

ScannerDanner how do I fix the block ground issue, I have the same problem as The Highwaymen. Thanks in advance.

[@shawndale3626]

@@ScannerDanner same problem on my 94 Ford Ranger four by four 3.0. Turn the key no start won't even turn over, all Dash and cab lights out.

[@markusdd5]

Hi, nice video as always! Will you also put up the video from ETCG where Eric. O. got the infamous welded ball joint? Would be a shame if this is only on your premium channel, which I cannot access from my country :(

[@ScannerDanner]

Absolutely! I'm definitely posting that here. Love you guys too, you do not need to be on my paid channel to matter to me.

[@Discretesignals]

He still is getting flack over that...LOL. Poor guy isn't' going to live that one down, but I personally think he still is a great mechanic. Hey, we all goof up, but the important thing is we learn from it.

[@jakeblanton3056]

Hey dan! I did your diagnotic tests with my power probe, found I am getting no voltage from the control wire during crank. What should I look at next? I replaced the ignition switch and checked the starter replay. Both were good.

[@ScannerDanner]

My name is Paul Danner 😉 Next step is to get some good service info and a wiring diagram so you can see what all is on that control side circuit. (Park/Neutral switch, clutch switch, anti-theft system, relay, wiring etc etc) This is the DIY version of the service info I use. For $20 you can have everything you need eautorepair.adtrk.biz/?a=10817&c=24&p=r&s1=

[@wagnatwo1568]

hi sir I think the problem is not the starter motor but is the brush because b4 you can fine out the motor is not good you need to remove the wire on the starter from the motor and taste them different and that u will know if the motor is not good or the starter brush is finished thanks for the video sir

[@antonyllamocca1635]

at 7:30 on this video. my 96 honda is giving me 4.45 volts READING ON THE SIGNAL WIRE . what is that suppose to mean?? voltage drop ? someone help PLEASE!!!!

[@smcewen7]

I replace the starter today put a test light on the bolt for the starter getting power to it from the ignition but still clicking once and then it starts next key turn,so its alot better but should start on the first key turn

[@ScannerDanner]

While cranking, put your test light on the heavy battery cable at the starter. Touch it to the stud, NOT the terminal end of the wire. What does it do DURING cranking? It should be lit the entire time.

[@smcewen7]

the light stays on

[@automedic9781]

What would you do in a situation where you can’t directly get to the starter? Would you charge tear down time to get to it and then diagnostic time to do these tests?

[@ScannerDanner]

Like on a Cadillac Northstar engine? I will access the wires as close to the starter as i can and test them there.

[@neilwilliams8608]

Is there any way this can be done with just one person? Awesome video. Thanks a lot.

[@ScannerDanner]

No, you will need someone to hold the key in the crank position for you during the testing.

[@TH-ey2rc]

You could put a stick on the key to hold it on crank from the floor

[@Roboticpycotic]

I'm no expert but I usually start by jumping the relay terminals myself in cases the starter is hard to get at.

[@serchmarc]

hey paul are you gonna upload the ETCG2016 visit? or it was just for your personal entertainment, regards from PERU

[@ScannerDanner]

Haha it's coming but I'm no Eric O. He did a great job of bringing what it was like, to you guys.

[@albertvillar7156]

Hi Danner, how are you doing? my name is Alberto from Vancouver

[@jaystaton4526]

Great video. Unfortunately, my 2000 Jeep Wrangler spent 6 hours in almost 3 feet of salt water from storm surge from hurricane Ian last week. I ran it a couple days after, but now the starter doesn't make any noise when I try to start it. Battery is fully charged. Could the starter be bad now?

[@ScannerDanner]

You're going to have more problems than just the starter unfortunately

[@jaystaton4526]

@@ScannerDanner Thank you for your quick reply and professional opinion. You wanna buy a Jeep? LOL.

[@nathanscruggs9175]

I have a jeep liberty 2003 the lights come on but will not start hucked it up straight and still nothing

[@coreyc47]

Hi, my 2012 library when cold cranks 1 time then the starter disengages but keeps spinning. Would that be a weak starter?

[@ScannerDanner]

A weak solenoid part of the starter, yes. But could be low voltage to the starter doing that too. Or a bad ground.

[@esmith836]

How do you work out a price when doing work for a friend on their vehicle when they ask if you can look at it for them?

[@TheGodzebra]

You do it for free because that's what friends do? Have them owe you a beer or something damn bro.

[@2011lafayette]

I have the same issue no crank . But on the dash if i start the car all the gauges go crazy the nidle goes up down etc . I checked my ignition switch all the mecanism is good . My next step is to test the starter wires .my question is why the gauges went crazy up down ? Do u think its bad computer ?

[@ScannerDanner]

without knowing what it is you are working on, I can't really answer but it is unlikely. More than likely you have a bad block ground based on your symptoms kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5fcfJywfcSih5o kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWO2YYqDn5h6ibM

[@mosesdog2]

For checking that ground on the starter, the starter ground could have been open, and that is why the light didn't light. I think a better test would have been BAT+ on the testlight, ground on the starter.

[@Discretesignals]

If the starter ground, which is the engine block and the block ground cable to the battery was open, the test light would have lit up with the test light connected to battery negative while cranking the engine. Checking the ground using a test light to battery positive should cause the light to be bright all the time and while attempting to crank the engine if the ground circuit is good. You can do it either way, but it is good to make sure the circuit is operational (loaded) regardless how you test it.

[@coreydinsdale7258]

2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, no crank, no click, nothing, dash lights on, everything seems normal, this happened first cold night in October, never had trouble before. Did get a new battery, same problem, only happens if I park it outside when gets below freezing, if it gets put in garage starts fine in morning. Did have engine replaced in September and thinking that maybe they didn't get a ground connected or maybe bad or loose connection on starter or maybe damaged started or possibly park/neutral got damaged.

[@ScannerDanner]

When it is not cranking, that's when you need to be doing your voltage tests at the starter to know which direction to go.

[@coreydinsdale7258]

@@ScannerDanner Only problem is you have to take intake manifold off to get to starter. Once again reinforcing my mantra that engineers and designers should be made to work on the systems they designed.

[@darkmantt]

2003 Pontiac Grand AM.. No Crank, No PowerBattery Is good, fully charged, (starts my other cars fine) new ignition switch installed. When I turn the key on I get nothing, no lights on the dash, no headlights, I don't hear the fuel pump priming and no crank. Any suggestions on what may be the issue.

[@ScannerDanner]

Blown fuseable link? Problem with your power distribution box? Check voltage on the heavy hot all the time wires to your ignition switch. I bet it's missing

[@jarinwilson9539]

Hey look Paul, there's a Spider! LOL

[@1atech]

Why couldn't you test the smaller stud during crank and if it passes the test, then you know the ignition control wire is good?

[@krislizana2017]

i had an instance where a car was towed in. no crank no start. jumped the gun sold starter. as soon as i pulled the old starter i checked it and called sized motor. old starter was good. pulled spark plugs and could not make engine budge at crank with 2ft 1/2 ratchet. change oil guys

[@jcstevegigs]

Cool video! I replaced my starter and battery on my Jeep and cleaned my grounds going to the chassis (although I couldn’t reach the nut holding to the engine block). Starts great but every now and then I get a drag on the starter. Slow crank. Very inconsistent though. Was gonna replace ignition switch? (A known Jeep issue apparently). Any other ideas? Thanks

[@ScannerDanner]

That won't be the ignition switch as it is on the control side of the starter solenoid. A slow crank at times will absolutely be from the load side of that starter circuit. The main battery cable to the starter would be the suspect area. Also, make sure the eyelet where it bolts to the starter is clean.

[@jcstevegigs]

@@ScannerDanner Thanks, I'd hate to waste $35 on the ignition switch if it isn't necessary. I did clean the threads and connector of the "always hot" wire to the new starter (I assume that's the one you mean) I thought I had it licked when I cleaned the ground to chassis connection from the battery. But then it slow cranked again...very randomly though - like every 15th or 20th start. I'll inspect that whole cable when it warms up a bit! Thanks again. I'm just a new DIYer but I'm considering taking your course. Tight on $$ right now. I never realized how much "electrical" was involved in car repairs - I thought it was all wrenches and sockets lol

[@ScannerDanner]

A voltage drop test on the heavy cable would identify it. Basically you want the engine cranking (must have current flow) when you do your voltage measurements (disable the spark or fuel so it doesn't start) compare battery voltage to what you are reading right at the starter heavy bat post. Make sure you're using battery negative for your voltmeter ground for all tests, even if you need to use a jumper wire to extend your leads. After that test, we can do the ground side of the circuit

[@jcstevegigs]

ScannerDanner I think I understand...so if it’s less than 12V at the starter, I have voltage drop and need to replace the cable from the battery to the starter? So the smaller wire is activating the solenoid, but when it “asks” for power from the battery, there’s s drop in voltage, hence the slow crank. Like I said it’s very intermittent. Most of the time it cranks and starts very fast (new starter and battery). Thanks so much for taking the time to reply, Paul!!! I’m excited to learn all this. Not sure where the “ground side” of the circuit is though. The ground to chassis? I cleaned that with a wire brush.

[@ScannerDanner]

@@jcstevegigs depending on the design, but most starters ground directly to the block via the bolts and housing of the starter. Then there would be a main ground cable that runs from the block directly to battery negative (main battery negative cable)

[@Tom-wq2mz]

1975 pontiac Catalina 400 66.6.Have power from battery to big starter terminal. . no power to the S ignition Wire To supply power to the solenoid. All under the cab fuses are new along with the starter and solenoid. Turn key cylinder and nothing.

[@ScannerDanner]

you have an open circuit (something you already know), there is no real trick here, visual inspection time. Is there another safety device it travels through after the ignition switch and before the S post? On a car there would be a park/neutral switch or neutral safety switch. (is a Catalina a car or boat?) Something else would be to make sure there is power coming into the ignition switch.

[@jamesbuttery3862]

How many volts does it take to light a test light though? Is that an accurate enough test down at the solenoid? Maybe there is a voltage drop of 6 volts lighting the test light but not allowing the starter motor to crank? Or does the light need 12 volts? I dunno.

[@GSXinTX]

I have this issue with my 2015 JK Wrangler. You said jumping the battery won't help, but I was able to start it, did you mean it won't be a fix and the issue is beyond the battery?

[@ScannerDanner]

So you're saying your battery is fine but when you jump start it anyway (higher charging system voltage from the other car) your car will start?

[@GSXinTX]

No what I was trying to clarify was when you said jumping the battery won't help, I took that as it won't do anything. And when I jumped the battery, the Jeep started, but the next day it wouldn't start again. So I was thinking it's a different issue. BUT long story short, I had the battery tested and it was a bad cell in the battery, swapped it out and all is good. It helps not to over analyze things and go through the logical troubleshooting before freaking out like I did for a minute. Thanks for responding to my message, I appreciate the help and your channel!

[@smcewen7]

I have a 2002 jeep I've been having starter issues with clicking at the starter and I turn the key over and over again and play with it for a while it finally starts but it seems to be getting worse I've checked all the cables connections I haven't got a test light on it was yet but I was one of this is maybe the ignition switch issue or starter guessing it's the starter does ignition switch powers everything else os working light blower etc and is clicking at the starter

[@ScannerDanner]

+Sean McEwen guessing is what you are doing without testing the circuit. Get a test light, they are cheap. Then follow some of my no crank videos

[@briggsandstrattonmastertec4109]

Is it technically a loaded circuit test if the component is faulty was I was thinking when u said make sure to test on the stud while cranking is if the component is bad wouldn’t that test not be valid because the wire doesn’t really have any power going threw it

[@0420pothed]

What if all the electrical components completely cut out when you turn the key from on to start?

[@whatwhale5888]

I know this is old but to anyone reading now, check your battery terminals they could be loose or corroded. My car used to do that randomly until I tightened the terminals down

[@0420pothed]

@@whatwhale5888 that car is gone now but, that's exactly what I thought. First I tightened the terminals. Then I checked and cleaned all my grounds. Then I replaced my terminals. Then I sold the car.

[@thelmaadams2080]

I want that starter tester he had

[@ScannerDanner]

You mean the jump pack? I have it listed on my Amazon affiliate page www.amazon.com/shop/scannerdanner

[@fredde88888888]

I have a problem that i can not find any info about on any site and my local mechanic don't know either Sweden mechanics dont know anything about american cars so i need to fix them myself.. all i can find on the forums is a clicking starter or the engine turns and dont but start my problem is different. My 2000 Grand Cherokee 4.0 when i try to start it 9 of 10 times (it happens if lucky that it start right away) it acts just like winter time with a bad battery, it wants to turn over but it can't well it does after 10-20 tries warm or cold doesnt matter. The starter turn the engine a inch or two before it stops. I buyed a new high quality battery, didnt do anything. even tried jump start it to see if the new one was bad I buyed new starter and the new solonoid was included, didnt do anything I cleaned all the major grounds to engine, and that didnt do anything Changed to new fresh oil.. I dont know what to do? It does the same in P and N to on the tranny

[@ScannerDanner]

When it is not cranking. I need voltage measurements on the main starter battery cable AND the starter S post. Have someone hold the key in the crank position for you when doing your measurements.

[@snellsworld2648]

My 2012 Jeep Wrangler wont start go to turnover nothing happens. All lights are on and lots on dash are all on. and it has a good starter and good battery. Could it be the ignition switch?

[@luvjoy1193]

todd smith my 2012 Jeep Wrangler is doing the exact same thing.. I was told by the dealer that I have to replace the whole ignition module and have it programmed.. Did you ever find the solution to your problem??

[@snellsworld2648]

@@luvjoy1193 they said it was the starter 😂😂😂😂

[@drewdrew2237]

What if you replace the starter and it still does same thing it happened to my Toyota it’s still parked at my job 🙁

[@ScannerDanner]

What are your voltage measurements when you are holding the key in the crank position? It MUST be a loaded circuit.

[@dennisbakker5262]

On a sunday dan?

[@hugoramirez9311]

I don't see the link to pull up diagrams!

[@ScannerDanner]

eautorepair.adtrk.biz/?a=10817&c=24&p=r&s1=

[@MANDSMANDS-ei6so]

ahh man i see this posted right before im goin to bed but not nomore hahah

[@RickB918]

Where's the link to the wiring diagrams??

[@ScannerDanner]

Here you go eautorepair.adtrk.biz/?a=10817&c=10032&p=r&s1=

[@paulisadora]

What could be the issue if the starter works cold, but not hot.

[@ScannerDanner]

you have to check it when it is not cranking to be sure, it still could be a wiring issue or starter issue, nothing is ruled out by that symptom

[@Adam-bw4lw]

what hapens if you tap on the starter and it stais in the crank position even after lething off the key?

[@SteveRobReviews]

Adam that has happened to me before. I always have a wrench ready to remove the neg battery cable . It only has to happen to you once and you never forget. LOL

[@Adam-bw4lw]

STEVE ROB i bet you wear runing tho get a wrench:)

[@SteveRobReviews]

+Adam Budai it was pretty scary , first thing I done was shut the ign off, oh ya it started and by the time I unhooked the cable the started was smoking so bad I thought it was going to catch fire. Ha we all learn the hard way unless you watch Paul and learn not to do as I do. LOL

[@Adam-bw4lw]

STEVE ROB Well after you disconected the bateri you can safely say"I poped it":)

[@SteveRobReviews]

+Adam Budai Well Adam it did stop and then I emptied the fire extinguisher on it, oh ya always have an extinguisher handy, water hose , battery wrenches and praying first can't hurt . I usually do a lot of praying during my repairs it seems to help.