battery or starter

2001 FORD RANGER
124,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
PWPROCKS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
turn the key and sometimes the car will start, others it wont turn over. could this be battery or starter?
Dec 19, 2010 at 5:52 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
MJR346
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 132 POSTS
Id have a free battery check at many of the places out there such as autozone, walmart etc. and if it tests good, look at battery cable connections (must be tight as I should be able to pull on the connection and not move it) and then possible suspect starter
Dec 19, 2010 at 7:27 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
If it start normally sometimes, chances are the battery is good. However, it would be a good thing to have it checked. As far as the problem, make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Make sure the ground to the engine block is clean and tight.
Feb 19, 2011 at 9:13 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.