3 times in the last week, i've needed a jump start. My battery has lots of corrison around the cables. AAA gave me a jump today, and they put their sensor on it, and he said that it was b/c the starter is dying, and so its taking too much juice each start. Does this jive?
2006-09-19 10:36:05 · 3 answers · asked by Nathan 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
it's a six year old car, and i've already bought a new starter on e-bay, using AAA's recommendations. Wouldn't be better to replace the starter and the battery all at once?
2006-09-19 10:57:02 · update #1
Yes, a short in the starter can drain the battery energy. A high-impedance problem in the starter can increase it's electrical needs. Bad connections can make all parts seem bad and prevent your battery from getting a recharge from the alternator. A weak battery can cause starter problems.
But don't replace anything yet....
First, disconnect both cables from your battery. Disconnect and clean the cable connectors on the starter until they shine, then reconnect them tightly.
Second, clean your battery terminals and cable connectors using one of those bullet-shaped battery terminal cleaners, also until they shine, then reconnect them tightly. Use the baking soda technique to clean the top of the battery before reconnecting your cables if you'd like or it's obviously in need of cleaning, then rinse well with water. You don't need to dry it, it will dry fine on its own. DO NOT GET ANY BAKING SODA INSIDE THE BATTERY.
Third, start your car and drive around for 30 minutes to an hour to fully charge the battery.
If problems return or change symptoms continue troubleshooting from there, but most likely you'll be ok after cleaning all the connectors.
2006-09-19 10:51:50 · answer #1 · answered by that'sBS 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yep, it sure does. You can take the starter off and have it tested to be sure it is the starter. A bigger problem you can solve in a few mins is the corresion on the battery. Take the cables off and scrub the terminals and the cables with a stiff brush. Use a solution of baking soda and water. Use a wire brush to brighten all connections and reconnect.
2006-09-19 10:41:52 · answer #2 · answered by Larry T 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
maybe. but the corrosion on your cables will prevent full current to your starter and cause charging problems as well. i would clean them up and fully charge my battery before spending any money.
2006-09-19 17:08:42 · answer #3 · answered by mike m 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋