Ok, need quick help

[farmboy89]

I went to start my car the other day, but it wouldn’t crank. The radio and lights would dim when I hit the key, but the car wouldn’t crank. So I got out and crossed the solenoid (between the battery and starter) and it cranked, but I didn’t try to start up because it was too cold to keep cranking it. I think it may just be the solenoid is bad, but it didn’t click (try to make the connection) when hit the key, just dimmed the lights and acted like it wanted to start (electrically) but did not turn the starter motor.
I haven’t really had time to look at it in depth, I’m in college and have had 4 exams this week, and I’m going home on Friday for spring break so I need all the ideas I can get.

Thanks

 

[68dustin]

i would start with the usually stuff...
-start by cleaning off your terminals really well
-Check to make sure the ignition wire are pluged in on the starter solenoid.
-make sure your getting 12v. at starter soleniod
-if everything ok -replace starter soleniod
-then if that doesnt work take a look at the voltage regulator & ignition switch or netural saftey switch

 

[Mil1ion]

Auto 101:

Batteries can appear fine because they show power but the amount of power a starter needs to crank requires a battery in Good condition.

Take it to a parts house and have them test it on the machine.

Batteries sulfate and go bad.

They develop shorts inside the case and will not crank a starter.