benjamin_himmel7
Cavalier starting problem
Summary of the thread
A 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier with a gasoline engine wouldn't start, remaining silent without any sputtering. The initial suspicion was corroded battery connections, which could prevent the engine from turning over. Cleaning the battery cable connections resolved the issue, allowing the car to start. Despite the check engine light being on, the problem was confirmed to be the corroded connections, and a professional diagnosis was recommended to clear the code and ensure no further issues.
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4 comment(s)
benjamin_himmel7 (community.author)
Interesting analogy! The check engine light is on, but it's been on for a while. I've been meaning to get it checked. So, you think even with a check engine light, the main culprit could still be those corroded connections?
lillykrause89
A check engine light can indicate many things, ECU failure for example, but starting issues due to bad connections are common and easy to check. In my case the light was on because of that too! However, with those symptoms, I'd still recommend having it diagnosed professionally if cleaning the terminals doesn't fix it. Could be something more serious.
benjamin_himmel7 (community.author)
Thanks for the advice! You were spot on. I cleaned the battery cable connections, and it fired right up. Took it to the shop anyway to clear the code from the check engine light, and they confirmed the connections were the problem. Cost me 155€ for the diagnostics and cleanup. Appreciate the help!
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CHEVROLET
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CAVALIER
lillykrause89
Sounds familiar. I had a similar problem with my old Saab 9-3. The battery cable connections were so bad, it was like trying to drink from a straw that's been pinched shut. Clean those connections thoroughly, make sure they're tight. Is the check engine light on?