2CarPros - Car Questions & Answers

1995 Dodge Neon Repair Question


Topics covered: Battery, Starter, Ignition switch.
Mileage: No information provided.

Asked on February 8, 2007

Dodge Neon Battery Problem

Today I went out tp pick up some things. I turned off the car and went in the store. When I came out the car wouldnt turn over at all. I cleaned the battery terminals and still no luck. The battery was old so I bought a new one and it still will not turn over. Everything comes on in the car, but when the key is turned it doesnt even make a sound. Any ideas ? The car has been running perfectly up until now.
Avatar Asked by StacyP

Answer

Replied on February 8, 2007

Ignition switch, starter, poor connection at starter or ground, would be my suspicions.

Tiny Answered by Service Writer (expert)
9,919 answers provided
Replied on February 8, 2007

Is there an easy way to determine whether its the ignition switch or starter?

Tiny Response from StacyP
7 questions asked
Replied on February 8, 2007

With test equiptment yes. Will need help from another MOd on that one though.

Tiny Answered by Service Writer (expert)
9,919 answers provided

Replied on February 10, 2007

Okay, I replaced both battery cables. Is there a test I can do on the ignition switch to see if its bad. I have a multimeter. Thanks for all your help.

Tiny Response from StacyP
7 questions asked
Replied on February 10, 2007

Check your email.

Tiny Answered by Service Writer (expert)
9,919 answers provided
Replied on February 11, 2007

Okay, I removed the old starter and had it tested. It was indeed bad. I put in the new one and the car started fine, however it runs for about 5 seconds and shuts off. I was told there was some sort of built in security system and I needed to clamp both battery cables together to drain the capacitor. Have you guys ever heard of this?

Tiny Response from StacyP
7 questions asked

Replied on February 11, 2007

YES, as a matter of fact. If you don't there is a memory that will not allow a re-start.

PS: did you get the e-mail?

Tiny Answered by Service Writer (expert)
9,919 answers provided
Replied on February 11, 2007

Yes , I did get the email. Thanks alot.
How long should I leave the cables clapped together?

Tiny Response from StacyP
7 questions asked
Replied on February 11, 2007

5 minutes should be plenty......Disconnected from the battery of course!


http://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_shockedohno_1.jpg

Tiny Answered by Service Writer (expert)
9,919 answers provided
Replied on February 11, 2007

I left it that way for over an hour and it still starts and run for a few seconds and then shuts off.

Tiny Response from StacyP
7 questions asked