Car wont start but radio and lights work

[VegasResident]

Okay this has happened twice this week with car doing fine in between so this is intermitant as a problem with me not doing anything different.

Got in car and turned key, radio and lights work but the car wont start, maybe a very very slight click from the right side under hood. After a couple tries with the key, car starts right up.


Thoughts?

[Moehnke1]

Sounds like you have a bad connection either to the battery or starter. The lights might pull about 20 amps and stock stereo may pull 7 amps. But a starter pulls around 250 amps or more. If you have a corroded battery and or cables or loose connections, this will give you the symtoms your having.

David

[rukshanw]

I agree. Check the connections to the starter...

[Innocent Hate]

I third, check your starter. Old trick... Turn the key to the start position and have someone tap on the start with a hammer. Don't beat the shit out of it, but tap it to loosen up the brushes and gearing. Otherwise, if you're under warranty still, get the starter replace.

[johne106]

I am having a similar problem with my 2003 Aerio GS AWD sedan. The car won't start despite all electrical apparently working. I get loud clicking when I try and start the car. I have replaced the battery cables, the battery, the starter, and the ground wire. It was apparently the ground wire, which was the last thing tried - I think it was corroded. The car started like a champ for 4 1/2 months, but just 2 days ago, the problem cropped up again...I took it to the dealership yesterday, but they could find nothing. After leaving, needless to say, I am stranded at work today - with a tow truck on the way. Any suggestions in addition to those that I have read about in this thread?