2001 Infiniti I30 Problems Starting after warm

2001 INFINITI I30
10,800 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DMORTON
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Car will not start. Replaced battery two days ago. Worked for a short time. Car quit last night. Checked alternator. Meter shows 13.9 loaded and 13.7 unloaded. Turn the key and all you hear is a loud "click" with no starter rotation. Attempted several times with no starter rotation, just the loud click.

Connected jumper cables from another car that was running. Turned key, starter turned and car started without trouble. Checked battery again and alternator again. Brand new battery checks ok. Alternator checks ok. What is wrong here? Is it the starter, the relay, or the ignition switch?

Stranded in Easton, MD.
Aug 22, 2008 at 5:15 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
MASTERTECHTIM
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 4,750 POSTS
its probably the starter motor and the added juice your giving it is enough to engage the solenoid. the way to check it is to make sure you still have 12 volts at starter fat wire when cranking and also make sure the smaller wire stays hot when you are on crank position, but i think you will find that its a bad starter motor. when they made these starters they used a thin round disc of copper in the solenoid that rotates and is supposed to make good electrical contact when the solenoid is engaged but this piece gets arc marks on it and occassionally will hit those arc marks and not make a good enough connection.
Aug 22, 2008 at 5:48 AM
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.