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dirkkrause5

Kalos wont start

I've got a 2002 Chevrolet Kalos with a gasoline engine that won't start at 231396 km. The engine won't turn over. I suspect an engine control malfunction, maybe a faulty ECU? The error memory is empty. I've checked the spark plugs, starter, and fuel pump relay, but they seem fine. The battery cable connections look a bit corroded. Any ideas?

Summary of the thread

A 2002 Chevrolet Kalos with a gasoline engine wouldn't start, and the engine wouldn't turn over. The initial suspicion was a faulty ECU, but the error memory was empty. After checking various components, it was noted that the battery cable connections were corroded. Cleaning and securely reconnecting the battery cables resolved the issue, and a workshop visit confirmed the need for a battery cable terminal replacement.

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4 comment(s)

dominikschwarz6

I had a similar issue with my Kalos. I also suspected the ECU, but it turned out to be simple. Did you thoroughly check your battery cable connections? Even a minor imperfection there can stop the engine from starting. Are they firmly attached and free of corrosion? The Kalos is sensitive in that area.

dirkkrause5 (community.author)

Thanks! Yes, I checked the battery cable connections, and they seemed to have some corrosion. I cleaned them with a wire brush, but I didn't disconnect them for a thorough cleaning. Could that be it? Was your problem immediately fixed after cleaning the connections, or did it take more?

dominikschwarz6

That could be it. A quick cleaning wasn't enough for me. The corrosion had gone deeper than I thought. Cleaning helped a little, but the engine still didn't want to start. Only after completely disconnecting, thoroughly cleaning, and re-securing the battery cables did it fix itself. But, it might be wise to visit a workshop for a professional check, just in case.

dirkkrause5 (community.author)

Thanks for the help! I disconnected the battery cables completely, cleaned them well, and reconnected them. The engine started right away! I went to the workshop to check for errors, and they replaced the battery cable terminal, which cost me 155€. Your advice about the battery cable connections was spot-on and saved me from a potentially expensive repair!

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CHEVROLET

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KALOS