What could be causing my car to not be able to start?

EMILYROSE8599

MEMBER
2014 CHEVROLET CAPTIVA
1.1L
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

The engine was just replaced last year. It started just fine this morning and then about 30 minutes later nothing. My car won't start. I turn the key and can hear one click and then nothing. The lights on the dash all come on, the radio works, the back up sensor turns on when put into reverse, I can roll the windows up and down. It just won't turn over. It shows my battery is at 11.8 volts. Is the battery just draining or could it be something else?

Friday, June 2nd, 2023 AT 7:47 AM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,101 POSTS

Hi,

If the starter isn't engaging, can you confirm the click you hear? 11.8v won't prevent it from engaging. I need confirmation on the engine size. It will either be a 2.4L 4-cylinder or a 3.0L V6.

Also, check to make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Take a look through this link for help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

I attached the starter circuit wiring schematic below so that you have a reference. If the click is not the starter, then we need to check for power at the starter.

There will be a smaller gauge purple wire at the starter. It will not have power until the key is in the start position. Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for power at that wire.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below. Note: The pic is for the 2.4L engine. If you have the 3.0L, let me know.

Images (Click to make bigger)