Weak Engine Crank: Power Circuit Issues Explained

Having dealt with a similar starting issue on my 2006 Chrysler Sebring, I can share some relevant experience as someone with moderate expertise in electrical diagnostics. The symptoms you describe strongly point to either a failing power supply system or a starter motor issue. In my case, a voltage drop test revealed the battery was heavily discharged and unable to provide sufficient power to the starter motor. The electrical fault initially seemed intermittent, making diagnosis tricky. My repair journey included: 1. Testing battery voltage (showed 11.2V, far too low) 2. Having the alternator output checked 3. Inspecting the wiring harness for damaged cables 4. Checking all ground connections The workshop confirmed a bad battery cell was causing the weak starting, combined with corroded battery terminals that were limiting current flow. The total repair came to 290€, including a new battery and terminal cleaning. Before offering more specific advice, could you share: Battery age and last replacement date, Any warning lights on the dash, Whether headlights appear dim, If you have noticed any other electrical issues This would help determine if your Crossfire is experiencing similar underlying problems with its power supply system.

Thanks for sharing your diagnostic experience. My last service was at 29400 KM, about 2 months ago. After reading your detailed response, I checked the charging system voltage while running and got 13.1V, which seems a bit low. The wiring harness near the starter looks slightly corroded, so this could be contributing to the voltage drop issue in the starting circuit. The battery is actually quite new, replaced 6 months ago when the old one completely failed. Looks like I should focus on checking those ground connections and starter circuit wiring before suspecting the fuse box components. The symptoms match what you experienced, especially the weak cranking suggesting a current delivery problem rather than the battery capacity itself.

Thanks for the voltage readings, that 13.1V is definitely on the low side for a running engine, as the charging system should typically show 13.8-14.4V. The corrosion you found on the starter wiring harness is likely creating resistance and a voltage drop that's affecting starting performance. In my Sebring, I initially overlooked similar corrosion at the starter solenoid connection. Even after replacing the battery, the weak starts persisted until addressing all the corroded connections. The electrical fault was masking itself as a battery issue. Since your battery is only 6 months old, I suggest: 1. Clean all ground straps with a wire brush, particularly engine-to-chassis connections 2. Check voltage drop across the starter circuit while cranking 3. Inspect the fuse box for any signs of heat damage or loose connections 4. Test the alternator under load, as 13.1V suggests it may be underperforming A failing alternator combined with high resistance connections can create a cycle where the battery never gets fully charged. The repair cost for cleaning connections and replacing my alternator was around 450€, but it completely resolved the starting problems. Let us know what you find after checking those ground connections. The symptoms really point to a voltage drop issue in the starting circuit rather than a major component failure.

Thanks for the troubleshooting suggestions. After reviewing your findings, I did some additional testing today. The alternator seems to be the main culprit, voltage drops to 12.4V under load with headlights and AC running. I cleaned all the ground connections and the starter wiring harness, which helped slightly but didn't resolve the core issue. The short circuit testing also revealed high resistance in the charging system wiring. I checked the fuse box connections near the alternator and found one connector showing signs of heat damage. This explains why the starting problems got worse over time even with the new battery. Based on your repair costs, I will budget around 500€ for the alternator replacement and wiring repairs. Good to know this fixed similar symptoms on your vehicle. I appreciate the detailed diagnostic steps, they helped narrow down the problem to the charging system rather than just the starter motor or ignition switch components. Will schedule the repairs next week and report back on whether this resolves the weak starting issue completely.