This is why as a man I've moved from being in the trenches and working on cars to conveyors to many a maintenance position to now an engineer. I've never forgotten my roots and will always trust a man with greasy hands. Nice video man.
I became an engineer without mechanical experience, other than changing tires and super light maintenance on drawing machines ina. factory. Now im working on EXYZ Cranes, ASRS, SCADA, Pallet Conveyors, Shuttle Cars, Automated stretch wrappers, etc. Tackling some car repairs this weekend. Im 41 yrs old, dont ever let someone tell you you’re too old to learn new skills!!
Thanks a million! Bought the starter $200+ but caught this video before installing it. I was stuck at a shopping center and had called for a tow. With your help I fixed it in minutes. Turns out it was the relay itself! The "work from here back" was perfect for me. I returned the starter, replaced the relay, cancelled the tow! I was home way before the tow truck could have got to me and I had more money in my pocket and more time for yard work! It's already been said, but You Da Man!
So your vehicle just need a relay. My car sounds like it’s trying to start but can’t I thought it was the starter but I don’t know my car mad the same sound like that but not completely clicking over
This video just saved me from being STRANDED! I literally used a paper clip because it was all i had and it STARTED RIGHT UP!! Will take it to the shop once back in town. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
@@m0bilemechanix Were do you recommended that I start to look next to recommend to the shop. This has happened before I thought it was the battery the first time and usually only happened when it's super cold 15 degrees this morning!
Saved me about $500! The starter alone was almost $300. I did the jump wire and nothing so pulled out the starter and a plug had worked it’s way loose. Clips were broken off. Plugged it back in and reinstalled did the jump wire again and fired up. Great video man! It’s my daughter’s 2011 Hyundai and I was nervous as hell figured I’d have to go get a loan to fix it. Ty!
Bridging the relay contact to energize the starter solenoid that then energizes the starter motor....excellent idea. This is the only YT video I could find explaining this. 👍
Thanks for the tip. I was about to buy a starter, but when I put in the jumper wire the starter turned fine. Changed the relay and it’s back up and running. $20 for a relay vs $200 for a starter, not to mention all the frustrating labor and grease. And it still wouldn’t have worked till I changed the relay. I’m a new subscriber.
Our 2001 GMC Sierra stopped turning over, and we used this method to test it. There was only clicking noises once we put the wires in there. Thanks! We figured it was the starter, but this most likely confirms it. Our battery is solid, connections on battery are solid, so we will replace the starter asap. I'll edit our post once we do that to see if that was the case. Thanks again for this little trick. My hubs went under the car to try to arc the starter before I found your video, and he had not seen this method before even though he is pretty solid with car knowledge!
@@ohsoslimeyy8073not necessarily. It means it could be the starter or the wiring to the starter. But since both things are changed with the changing of starter they will never know which fixed it. I would first verify the wires are nice and tight with no wiggle and check that before spending the money on a new starter.
Perfect timing for this video hitting my suggestion list. Going in a few minutes to help my son in law figure out weather his starter is bad or not. Thank you.
I changed the ignition switch before seeing your video with no fix. Checked the starter using your method and no start. Now changing the starter. Thanks !!
Great info brother, thank you for educating us (especially those like myself that are completely ignorant when it comes to mechanical work), this is priceless information! A TRUE blue collar deep rooted man! It’s rare to find people these days that will go out of their way to put helpful DIY videos for the less educated, your a blessing to more than you may realize!
Famous actor Jon Hamm does a fantastic job explaining in this video- I had been looking for a clear breakdown of how to figure out my starter issue and this was both informative and suggested great handsomeness!
Thanks a lot! Helped me to confirm that my starter was not the problem on my Jeep TJ. Finally traced it to a finicky after market alarm installed by a previous owner.
This is one of the most concise and informative automotive self-help videos I've ever come across. I can't say how much I appreciate you taking the time to point out this extremely easy starter test. I was able to verify that the starter still works in my 1998 Toyota Avalon. The only thing I would point out for others checking out this video is that the '98 Avalon's relay doesn't give much space for using a large diameter wire as the test wire since it uses thin metal blades like a wall socket plug in a building. The circuit paths are printed on the top of the Denso-manufactured relay, so you may need to clean it off, and it doesn't show the full switch (i.e. the line meant to indicate the switch that ought to be electromagnetically activated when the key is turned in the ignition), so just find the open/close path diagram. Additionally, the '98 Avalon relay is purple (top) and white (bottom) colored, located in the front most relay/fuse box under the hood on driver side, with a snap-fit connection that you'll need to pry open with something long and thin (e.g., a putty knife). For the '98 Avalon relay connections, 1/2 is the ignition path and 3/5 is the starter path instead of 85/86 and 30/87 shown in this video. I managed to cram a 14 or 16 gauge wire into the 3 and 5 connections just barely enough to engage the starter, so I would go with something thinner for the test in the future. Thanks again for the awesome video!
2019 Dodge Grand Caravan 4.0 Relays would click but no starter response. Tried your bypass method and AWESOME not only did the starter turn over but the starter began working normally. GREAT time saving info. Thanks so much
Bro. I was a little hesitant with your slooooooow-ass explanation but the content is SPOT ON and i found that my starter was only working intermitently. The first few times i plugged in the wire i got spark from the plugs but no starter turn-over. After gently tapping on the starter and checking the plugs to it i tried the wire jumper again and it cranked like a champ. Now i'll just replace the starter instead of spending hours chasing other stuff. Well-done and THANK YOU.
Thank you so much! Your video, this one in particular helped me get the vehicle back on the road within a few minutes. Didn’t have a wire to test it but I swapped the relays and it worked so it looks like it was a relay issue not the starter. Thank you so much.
I offer my sincere THANX, sir! My '99 Dakota wouldn't do ANYTHING when I turned the key. But when I used Ur advice to "test" if the starter was bad or not, Ol' Bessie actually started right up - much to my delight! I really appreciate U sharing Ur knowledge!! Cheerz, Bill in FL
Bill McGowan that means you have an ignition switch problem or if it's an automatic an nutural safety switch problem and if it's a stick a clutch switch problem. If it's automatic try starting it in nutural. If it starts in nutural replace the nutral safety switch.
@@m0bilemechanix Wow! Thanx again for Ur help, sir! Ya know, I was thinking it was probably the ignition switch. And yes, this 1999 Dakota is a 4cyl, standard 5speed. I just recently turned over the 100K mile mark! Incredible, right?! Best vehicle I ever had & I've had at least 20 different cars/trucks/bombs in my day! With Regards, Bill in Florida
This is the most helpful video I've seen in a long time, and I've been doing half of my troubleshooting and repair for many years. Thank you. I've told young adults the first step is to turn on the head-lights to see if they are bright or dim. Even with dim headlights, if you hear a clicking at the starter, the solenoid is actuating halfway, but not all the way (this video is a vital step). The top five starting problems are typically mutually exclusive, so it will rarely be two of those problems at the same time. Awesome tip, thanks!
Thanks! Saved me lots of grief. It was the relay that you unplugged. Took another like # and size relay and plugged it in. Worked great. A relay cost me about $13 bucks.
FYI to anyone watching this video wondering where the starter fuse is, it's located right below the starter relay fuse marked IGN-E on the panel cover. In this video it's the fuse he unknowingly points to at the 5:10 minute mark.
Wow!!! My 06 H2 wouldn’t start - no crank at all but the battery was a few months old and I check that it was charged. I watched a number of other videos but they were of little help. I watched your video and immediately determine my starter is good and I’m having a fuse/relay problem somewhere. Many Thanks!!!
BTBB No Crank No Start, 1st if it’s auto move the gear shift in and out of Park with ignition on and then try to start .. Next try turning the steering back and forth in lock position and then try starting , this works on my CLK
My daughter have a hyundai veloster and not starting, turn on everything normal ,but when you push the starter nothing happen...i did this test and i lt does try to start. So that means its not the starter???
This is a great trick, I’ve also swapped relays with another and see if it cranks. Now it may not start depending on which relay you steal to see if it will crank, but it will tell you if you have a bad starter relay and you can do it without any tools.
Thanks for this video. I just had my battery tested today and it was fine. I was looking at videos of replacing the starter when I saw your video. Did the rest you showed and now I’m going tour to buy a relay instead of a starter. Really appreciate the information. Great video.
That's a really useful video. If the starter is working, but the engine doesn't start it could also be that there is no fuel running into the engine i.e. fuel pump not working for some reason. I had that happen to me twice on two different cars.
Amazing help. Hubby had already purchased the starter because autozone scanned it and it marked as a fail. I checked the relays and heard a click, after that a different autozone scanned it and all passed so we didnt need to replace the starter anymore & got our money back. Thank you for your help 🎉
MAN... I LOVE YOU! You made perfect sense. Married a great mechanic. He couldn't explain crap but could make anything run. Don't have him anymore so came here. So glad I did. Why mechanics don't want others to know about the little things is a wonder to me. I'm going to do this in the morning. Might comment back to the wonders I find under that hood. THANKS.
Thank you so much, this helped so much. I was looking at $800.00 thinking it was the ignition switch. It also saved me alot of hassle from removing the starter and taking it to get checked. After I was able to get it started with the magical little wire I was able to purchase another relay and install it. Well gosh dam boom it started right away. You saved me alot of trouble mister. I would like to Thank you so much may GOD BLESS you and may GOD BLESS AMERICA and make America great again.
To whoever it helps. If you do this test and the starter seems very weak or unable to crank, try removing the accessory belt and repeat the test. Anything siezed up on the belt path will make you believe the starter is bad when it is in fact not.
Man I was about to go down there to take out the starter and take it to be tested. I did as you did and had the same results, so my starter is still kicking. Thank you much.
I cant believe I didnt think of this before.. nice work man. Your video helped me keep from removing the starter al over again.. lol I had it out five times already.. I didnt want to do it agian
Thank you for saving me. The mechanic could not start my car. After watching this, it works very well. You took me out of a danger zone. I had no money and no transportation.😀
Thanks. I have a 2012 F350 Diesel that all of a sudden will not start with new batteries. I tried to check the relays by switching them around after checking the fuses but I like this trick and will try it! Very much appreciated.
Sir you are a blessing, I thank you for your knowledge, my gmc before would just click and would not turn over, your method solved my problem, now it turns over with the key in the ignition and runs great, I thank you once again!!
Dude, this is perfect! Excellent way to bypass and isolate the starter and test it. Thank you so much for the time you took to make and share the video.
m0bilemechanix does this test determine if the solenoid is bad as well or just the starter motor? as I was told my solenoid is bad. does this test determine that the solenoid is bad or just the starter motor?
I've been trying the way you're showing with a wire, and starting the car. (IN NEUTRAL AS YOU SAY!) It's a Kia SUV. Unfortunately, about half the time the car won't start - zero Sparks, clicks, or sound or anything, it's like there's no battery in the car. But usually the next day, after sitting awhile, it'll start! I can't figure out why sometimes it doesn't start and other times it starts right up. I'm not doing anything different. Anyway, after watching this video, I now at least understand how this all works and what all the terms mean. I think I stand a chance of actually getting it fixed. First I'm gonna check starter fuse, then the starter relay. If it's not either of those then maybe I have a loose connection on the starter. Thanks for this video!!
Great video. Not sure if you’re still reading comments but here goes anyway. Can your starter work intermittently? My jeep wouldn’t start before. Just a faint click and nothing. Tried a few times then it finally started. Took it for a drive. Turned off the engine. And it started right up again. Battery is good. Just wondering if it COULD be the starter beginning to go bad. I will try the jumper wire test but if it starts, can’t it still be the starter and I’m just having luck with it working for now? Thanks.
I can't thank you enough for taking the time to make this video and share your knowledge. If there's any thing you could tell me that would help me out on a 2007 Pontiac G6 with a 3.5 L. I scanned it it said it was eecm I replaced it + reset the computer. And then I took the starter all went and had it tested if I would have only caught your video a day earlier it sure would have saved me a lot of time and energy. The starter tested good. I put it back in and now today I won't try testing it myself by your method just to make sure that the kid at the auto parts store didn't botch up the test. And I replace the battery before I did anything I have power to everything except from the key to the starter. And I hate to tear the whole - apart to replace the ignition if there might be something else I could try first thank you again appreciate you
Check PRNDL switch to make sure the vehicle knows its in park. One way to check that is to put it in neutral and see if it cranks over. If it does the switch is bad
Thanks for sharing this! This worked perfect for me! I was changing my valve stem seals and this trick helped me rotate the engine forward to make sure the cylinder was TDC (top dead center). Awesome trick!
@@beverlyvaile7122 what the flying f? Hes happy he used this for a different method, idk id recommend doing this, esp if you already have stuff apart, but to each their own
I'm so glad that I found this video because I'm doing this without help. I will be trying it today and I'm praying it works. Thank you for the easy step by step instructions! 🙂 Carrie
Good question, I wondered about that too. I’m not a mechanic but saw this issue mentioned in the comments. Apparently there’s a park sensor that could be bad and can prevent starting. That’s why he said to be careful in trying this method because it bypasses several safety systems. I just switched the starter relay and it started great. Didn’t touch the starter.
NO! This will work when the car is in gear. Thats why it is absolutely paramount that you make sure the vehicle is in park or neutral and not in gear. If you do this while vehicle is in gear it WILL lurch 100% of the time and anyone under the vehicle or in front of it is very likely to be injured, and potentially severely injured, especially if anyone is under the vehicle.
Very wise to overly repeat neutral park brake and park some one that has enough info to be very dangerous if they’re not mechanically/technical minded.
That would be me! So the vehicle must be in neutral to use this faster wire method? If you are parked on a hill, front facing downward the hill, would you keep the emergency brake on and put in neutral to prevent any rolling? Or not use this method altogether? 😬
Wow thanks much bro. It worked on a Mercedes c240. My turn to give you a tip...never ever buy a Mercedes. I had to watch more videos just to put the stupid car in neutral. Im crossing fingers and toes That the relay Will solve my problem. Otherwise much much more videos on stupid safety switch to come. But today im glad i saved about 1000$ for a starter. Guess it worth a like.
Thanks a ton for your Video because I was literally starting to unscrew my mud shield under my Sierra and there was like 50 screws and that was when I thought to check the Internet for ideas. First one I came across was yours and helped me out. THANK YOU AGAIN! Patrick VH
I understand that this can help diagnose if the starter is bad but to test the starter directly is always going to be the best way because, if the starter ignition wire or ground wire is broken or corroded for example. It will still not start with this method, but other from that its a pretty neat trick
Wow, your video also helped me to possibly diagnose my intermittent starting problem. The battery is good. With your test now I'm not getting anything at all not even a click. The car just started 3X today than as it does every week or so no crank no start but does click... A few days later.. it starts again. Thank you so much for the video. Keep up the good work.
@@m0bilemechanix Yes, you're correct. I have replaced it and now works. Something strange (to me) has happened. One of the bolt as I was screwing it in, about halfway it just went all the way in all at once, like there was no more tread inside. Now I can pull it with my hands halfway out. It's the correct bolt. I have no idea what to do.. the starter is actually holding with 2 bolts instead of 3.
Good information. Only one time I used this technique and the starter didn't fire...yet , the starter was actually good. And it was due to voltage drop on the ground wire. Diagnosis can get complicated at times.
Thanks for the prelim I absolutely agree that people have a low attention span and misconstrue a statement from a question and to walk and chew gum at the same time. Thank you for sharing your expertise on testing a good or bad starter. The process of elimination is the key, i have a Hyundai Veloster and no diagram on the relay switch.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Sir your video was an answer to my prayers. I have struggling messing around with the security saftey anti-theft system on my 2002 chevy silverado for some time now. I have done several supposed fixes at the steering column and ignition switch. These fixes were good for a time but something else would happen especially on hot days when the metal expands. Without getting into those details, your solution is THE complete bypass I was looking for without having to run new wires straight to the starter itself. The jump hot wire works great, now I intend to put a bypass starter switch in my cab and run the lines to the relay socket per your video. Thanks again and God bless!
Thank you so much about emphasizing on the battery voltage, I was getting ready to pull my starter out because it wouldn’t start after charging the battery so I figured must be the starter which did not look like fun and I kept thinking about what you said with 12.8 V, when I checked it it was 11.9. Saved me a lot of work.
I have an intermittent starting issue. Old truck, new to me. Starter was already replaced but is suspect. I've checked out everything except any possible anti theft circuitry. I should have thought of this myself, but I didnt. Thank you, I'll be giving this a shot tomorrow. Honestly, I hope it is the starter because I dont want to have to dig into the security system. Thanks for the tip!!
Leaving the key out of the car, this is also should be good for turning the engine for gross positioning (not necessarily great for fine positioning) of a piston to wherever you need it... say TDC on the compression stroke... or setting static timing . This does not enable fuel injection or spark generation. Used to do this by shorting power TO the solenoid. Timing /dwell kits used to have wired remote (simple squeezer-switch, momentary contact) for clicking an engine over. That could be used here, too, between pins 30 & 87 on the starter relay socket.
Further update. Replaced the relay but the problem has persisted. The car starts sometimes from the key and then it doesnt. I open the hood and use the wire to jump it. But now it doesnt always start straight away like before. It may take a repeated connecting of the wires before it turns over. Just a loud click is heard - same as when turning the key. Im guessing it is the starter motor itself.
Add on - found the problem this morning. Poor connection between the key and the key reader slip ring!! Just had to put some pressure on the key when turning and starts every time ☺️
![How To Test and Diagnose Relays and Wiring [4 & 5 Pin]](/img/n.gif)
This is why as a man I've moved from being in the trenches and working on cars to conveyors to many a maintenance position to now an engineer. I've never forgotten my roots and will always trust a man with greasy hands. Nice video man.
Sounds like you are one of the few engineers without a massive ego. Thank you for staying humble. Most arnt humble and act like eggheaded snobs...
@@tyrannusspissamentum4423 Thanks.
I became an engineer without mechanical experience, other than changing tires and super light maintenance on drawing machines ina. factory. Now im working on EXYZ Cranes, ASRS, SCADA, Pallet Conveyors, Shuttle Cars, Automated stretch wrappers, etc. Tackling some car repairs this weekend. Im 41 yrs old, dont ever let someone tell you you’re too old to learn new skills!!
@@tyrannusspissamentum4423❤
Just a question how old are you?
Thanks a million! Bought the starter $200+ but caught this video before installing it. I was stuck at a shopping center and had called for a tow. With your help I fixed it in minutes. Turns out it was the relay itself! The "work from here back" was perfect for me. I returned the starter, replaced the relay, cancelled the tow! I was home way before the tow truck could have got to me and I had more money in my pocket and more time for yard work!
It's already been said, but You Da Man!
So your vehicle just need a relay. My car sounds like it’s trying to start but can’t I thought it was the starter but I don’t know my car mad the same sound like that but not completely clicking over
Relay? So do I Google starter relay or just relay?
I was trying to start it and then smoke and bad smell. Did I fried the starter? Should I buy new Relay?
Nice!
Hell yeah man thats dope
This video just saved me from being STRANDED! I literally used a paper clip because it was all i had and it STARTED RIGHT UP!! Will take it to the shop once back in town. 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Heck ya
@@m0bilemechanix Were do you recommended that I start to look next to recommend to the shop. This has happened before I thought it was the battery the first time and usually only happened when it's super cold 15 degrees this morning!
How exactly did you use a paperclip?
@@karenmmcthree What do you mean? I untied the clip as in made it straight then jumped it.
@@David-td5po okay thank you I still don't understand though
Saved me about $500! The starter alone was almost $300. I did the jump wire and nothing so pulled out the starter and a plug had worked it’s way loose. Clips were broken off. Plugged it back in and reinstalled did the jump wire again and fired up. Great video man! It’s my daughter’s 2011 Hyundai and I was nervous as hell figured I’d have to go get a loan to fix it. Ty!
I have the same car and should try that.
the tractors
The tractors
@@melloj535did it work?
@@nekawallc6324 it was actually the engine that was messed up and I got it replaced for a new one under warranty through Hyundai.
Bridging the relay contact to energize the starter solenoid that then energizes the starter motor....excellent idea.
This is the only YT video I could find explaining this.
👍
Thank you for the comment
How did you figure out which hole the 30 and 87 from the diagram represented? cus I have no way of knowing on my ford f150
Thanks for the tip. I was about to buy a starter, but when I put in the jumper wire the starter turned fine. Changed the relay and it’s back up and running. $20 for a relay vs $200 for a starter, not to mention all the frustrating labor and grease. And it still wouldn’t have worked till I changed the relay. I’m a new subscriber.
Our 2001 GMC Sierra stopped turning over, and we used this method to test it. There was only clicking noises once we put the wires in there. Thanks! We figured it was the starter, but this most likely confirms it. Our battery is solid, connections on battery are solid, so we will replace the starter asap. I'll edit our post once we do that to see if that was the case. Thanks again for this little trick. My hubs went under the car to try to arc the starter before I found your video, and he had not seen this method before even though he is pretty solid with car knowledge!
Was that the problem?
@@ohsoslimeyy8073not necessarily. It means it could be the starter or the wiring to the starter. But since both things are changed with the changing of starter they will never know which fixed it. I would first verify the wires are nice and tight with no wiggle and check that before spending the money on a new starter.
Was it the starter
Yep. These are the kinds of videos we need on here. Great job explaining how to make it easier to find the issue.
Perfect timing for this video hitting my suggestion list. Going in a few minutes to help my son in law figure out weather his starter is bad or not. Thank you.
I changed the ignition switch before seeing your video with no fix. Checked the starter using your method and no start. Now changing the starter. Thanks !!
This is AWESOME. Saved me having to get my truck towed, and ultimately just had to replace the relay, when I thought it was going to be the starter.
Great info brother, thank you for educating us (especially those like myself that are completely ignorant when it comes to mechanical work), this is priceless information!
A TRUE blue collar deep rooted man!
It’s rare to find people these days that will go out of their way to put helpful DIY videos for the less educated, your a blessing to more than you may realize!
Thank you the comment!
Congrats on your patience answering the same questions over and over again for YEARS!
Famous actor Jon Hamm does a fantastic job explaining in this video- I had been looking for a clear breakdown of how to figure out my starter issue and this was both informative and suggested great handsomeness!
Thanks a lot! Helped me to confirm that my starter was not the problem on my Jeep TJ. Finally traced it to a finicky after market alarm installed by a previous owner.
You may not wear a cape, sir, but im my books, youre a hero. Thank you for this short, precise, yet golden information.
This is one of the most concise and informative automotive self-help videos I've ever come across. I can't say how much I appreciate you taking the time to point out this extremely easy starter test. I was able to verify that the starter still works in my 1998 Toyota Avalon.
The only thing I would point out for others checking out this video is that the '98 Avalon's relay doesn't give much space for using a large diameter wire as the test wire since it uses thin metal blades like a wall socket plug in a building. The circuit paths are printed on the top of the Denso-manufactured relay, so you may need to clean it off, and it doesn't show the full switch (i.e. the line meant to indicate the switch that ought to be electromagnetically activated when the key is turned in the ignition), so just find the open/close path diagram. Additionally, the '98 Avalon relay is purple (top) and white (bottom) colored, located in the front most relay/fuse box under the hood on driver side, with a snap-fit connection that you'll need to pry open with something long and thin (e.g., a putty knife). For the '98 Avalon relay connections, 1/2 is the ignition path and 3/5 is the starter path instead of 85/86 and 30/87 shown in this video. I managed to cram a 14 or 16 gauge wire into the 3 and 5 connections just barely enough to engage the starter, so I would go with something thinner for the test in the future.
Thanks again for the awesome video!
2019 Dodge Grand Caravan 4.0 Relays would click but no starter response. Tried your bypass method and AWESOME not only did the starter turn over but the starter began working normally. GREAT time saving info. Thanks so much
Bro. I was a little hesitant with your slooooooow-ass explanation but the content is SPOT ON and i found that my starter was only working intermitently. The first few times i plugged in the wire i got spark from the plugs but no starter turn-over. After gently tapping on the starter and checking the plugs to it i tried the wire jumper again and it cranked like a champ. Now i'll just replace the starter instead of spending hours chasing other stuff. Well-done and THANK YOU.
What? I thought if the jumped relay starts the car then the starter is good, and the relay is bad. Now I'm confused.
@@buttercuptaylor7135 The fact that he had to tap the starter to get it to turn means the starter isn't doing the job reliably.
Thank you so much! Your video, this one in particular helped me get the vehicle back on the road within a few minutes. Didn’t have a wire to test it but I swapped the relays and it worked so it looks like it was a relay issue not the starter. Thank you so much.
I offer my sincere THANX, sir! My '99 Dakota wouldn't do ANYTHING when I turned the key. But when I used Ur advice to "test" if the starter was bad or not, Ol' Bessie actually started right up - much to my delight! I really appreciate U sharing Ur knowledge!! Cheerz, Bill in FL
Bill McGowan that means you have an ignition switch problem or if it's an automatic an nutural safety switch problem and if it's a stick a clutch switch problem. If it's automatic try starting it in nutural. If it starts in nutural replace the nutral safety switch.
@@m0bilemechanix Wow! Thanx again for Ur help, sir! Ya know, I was thinking it was probably the ignition switch. And yes, this 1999 Dakota is a 4cyl, standard 5speed. I just recently turned over the 100K mile mark! Incredible, right?! Best vehicle I ever had & I've had at least 20 different cars/trucks/bombs in my day! With Regards, Bill in Florida
This is the most helpful video I've seen in a long time, and I've been doing half of my troubleshooting and repair for many years. Thank you. I've told young adults the first step is to turn on the head-lights to see if they are bright or dim. Even with dim headlights, if you hear a clicking at the starter, the solenoid is actuating halfway, but not all the way (this video is a vital step). The top five starting problems are typically mutually exclusive, so it will rarely be two of those problems at the same time. Awesome tip, thanks!
Will this work if I just hear a click click and it’s not turning over. Can I jump it with wire like he did to start the vehicle?
what causes the solenoid to only go halfway, if your battery is good?
Thanks! Saved me lots of grief. It was the relay that you unplugged. Took another like # and size relay and plugged it in. Worked great. A relay cost me about $13 bucks.
good to see us old motor heads helping each other out.
A
@@curtisschaaf6569 30mins
J+1j+j+1q11¹qqq@ao9
@@curtisschaaf6569 t
i don’t know what i would do without y’all lol
FYI to anyone watching this video wondering where the starter fuse is, it's located right below the starter relay fuse marked IGN-E on the panel cover. In this video it's the fuse he unknowingly points to at the 5:10 minute mark.
It Needs a Relay as well as a fuse If one of them's gone thats a problem
French Aproved.
@@peterwood-jenkins3634 oo[the 88 ooo I⁹lokkiuol ml oki no okkkp 000000i .koo ,ml
Thanks! I used this info to test my starter. It was a bad battery connection that looked solid. You saved me Hundreds!
Wow. Being a mechanic is more than just nuts and bolts. Incredible
Thank you I learned alot
Wow!!! My 06 H2 wouldn’t start - no crank at all but the battery was a few months old and I check that it was charged. I watched a number of other videos but they were of little help. I watched your video and immediately determine my starter is good and I’m having a fuse/relay problem somewhere.
Many Thanks!!!
BTBB
No Crank No Start, 1st if it’s auto move the gear shift in and out of Park with ignition on and then try to start .. Next try turning the steering back and forth in lock position and then try starting , this works on my CLK
Retired master mechanic here good dyi advice. 😀
My daughter have a hyundai veloster and not starting, turn on everything normal ,but when you push the starter nothing happen...i did this test and i lt does try to start. So that means its not the starter???
This is a great trick, I’ve also swapped relays with another and see if it cranks. Now it may not start depending on which relay you steal to see if it will crank, but it will tell you if you have a bad starter relay and you can do it without any tools.
Thanks for this video. I just had my battery tested today and it was fine. I was looking at videos of replacing the starter when I saw your video. Did the rest you showed and now I’m going tour to buy a relay instead of a starter. Really appreciate the information. Great video.
That's a really useful video. If the starter is working, but the engine doesn't start it could also be that there is no fuel running into the engine i.e. fuel pump not working for some reason. I had that happen to me twice on two different cars.
This is exactly what we are thinking is the issue with our vehicle.
Amazing help. Hubby had already purchased the starter because autozone scanned it and it marked as a fail. I checked the relays and heard a click, after that a different autozone scanned it and all passed so we didnt need to replace the starter anymore & got our money back. Thank you for your help 🎉
Great video. It has allowed me to start my car daily while I am waiting for parts. It verified the starter is working. Thank you!
Definetly just saved us from pulling the starter on a 96 degree day. I really appreciate you taking the time.
Great tip! was gonna remove the intake mainfold and go through lots of trouble to change the starter but your video saved me. Thanks man!
😁 really
MAN... I LOVE YOU!
You made perfect sense. Married a great mechanic. He couldn't explain crap but could make anything run. Don't have him anymore so came here. So glad I did.
Why mechanics don't want others to know about the little things is a wonder to me.
I'm going to do this in the morning. Might comment back to the wonders I find under that hood.
THANKS.
Thank you so much, this helped so much. I was looking at $800.00 thinking it was the ignition switch. It also saved me alot of hassle from removing the starter and taking it to get checked.
After I was able to get it started with the magical little wire I was able to purchase another relay and install it. Well gosh dam boom it started right away. You saved me alot of trouble mister.
I would like to Thank you so much may GOD BLESS you and may GOD BLESS AMERICA and make America great again.
Thanks for watching and the comment!
30 and 87, got it! You saved me $230 I'm taking back this starter to auto zone for a refund
To whoever it helps. If you do this test and the starter seems very weak or unable to crank, try removing the accessory belt and repeat the test. Anything siezed up on the belt path will make you believe the starter is bad when it is in fact not.
Man I was about to go down there to take out the starter and take it to be tested. I did as you did and had the same results, so my starter is still kicking. Thank you much.
Man, oh man....you just saved me a whole bunch of time and money! THANK YOU! Car FIXED!
You taking the time to post this video has solved my problem. Found corroded relay prongs in the process. Thank you
I'm glad it helped and I appreciate you taking the time to comment also
thats bad ass bro! i knew you could short out solenoid with screwdriver but this is next level and a dahhhh!! taken my buddies car for a spin now! lol
I cant believe I didnt think of this before.. nice work man. Your video helped me keep from removing the starter al over again.. lol I had it out five times already.. I didnt want to do it agian
Awesome advice! You just saved me $300 on an alternator. God bless you! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
Really appreciate your style and method. Very easy to follow and understand. I am a deskbound guy, not a car guy. Thank you
This is a $200.00 video thanks man
😊yw cheers
this is a $1500 video for me :')
Thanks helped us a lot
@@HailHadrianI'm in I'm
Thank you for saving me. The mechanic could not start my car. After watching this, it works very well. You took me out of a danger zone. I had no money and no transportation.😀
seriously, it's nice to know videos like this exist. very well done.
Thanks. I have a 2012 F350 Diesel that all of a sudden will not start with new batteries. I tried to check the relays by switching them around after checking the fuses but I like this trick and will try it! Very much appreciated.
What gauge wire did you use to by-pass the starter relay ?
I found a piece of co-ax wire, which is fairly thick. I hammered the ends to be flat enough to insert and it works great.
@@johnnysparkleface3096did it shock you hard g
It does not matter he just hast to conduct electricity
@@wildestcowboy2668 12v ain't shiit broski
What if you don't have a wire could you use a phone charger
This is knowledge.... only a few people know and won't teach.. thank you for helping us
Sir you are a blessing, I thank you for your knowledge, my gmc before would just click and would not turn over, your method solved my problem, now it turns over with the key in the ignition and runs great, I thank you once again!!
Can't thank you enough mate, enabled me to sort things out on my own without paying someone else, great video 😊
I have forgotten so much about working on cars that this simple test brought back memories
Awesome, I figured mine was the starter but this helped confirm it. Troubleshooting at its best. Great video and to the point!
Nice! I used this to get the car running so I could take to the parts store.
This saved me a lot of time! Don't comment a lot but this was solid, thank you.
Dude, this is perfect! Excellent way to bypass and isolate the starter and test it. Thank you so much for the time you took to make and share the video.
im glad you liked it thank you for the comment
Great video
Thanks for your help!
m0bilemechanix does this test determine if the solenoid is bad as well or just the starter motor? as I was told my solenoid is bad. does this test determine that the solenoid is bad or just the starter motor?
Jose Iraheta Portillo e
I've been trying the way you're showing with a wire, and starting the car. (IN NEUTRAL AS YOU SAY!) It's a Kia SUV. Unfortunately, about half the time the car won't start - zero Sparks, clicks, or sound or anything, it's like there's no battery in the car. But usually the next day, after sitting awhile, it'll start! I can't figure out why sometimes it doesn't start and other times it starts right up. I'm not doing anything different.
Anyway, after watching this video, I now at least understand how this all works and what all the terms mean. I think I stand a chance of actually getting it fixed. First I'm gonna check starter fuse, then the starter relay. If it's not either of those then maybe I have a loose connection on the starter. Thanks for this video!!
Ya sounds like either loose connection or bad starter. It's not the fuse though if it sometimes starts so you can skip that.
YES ! I was just trying to see if I could jump the solenoid but I couldn't see it well enough, thank you UA-cam!
Hey mObilemechanix I just used your jumper wire trick to determine that it was indeed the starter that was the issue, great video that's
Great video. Not sure if you’re still reading comments but here goes anyway. Can your starter work intermittently? My jeep wouldn’t start before. Just a faint click and nothing. Tried a few times then it finally started. Took it for a drive. Turned off the engine. And it started right up again. Battery is good. Just wondering if it COULD be the starter beginning to go bad. I will try the jumper wire test but if it starts, can’t it still be the starter and I’m just having luck with it working for now? Thanks.
There’s a comment from “deodea” who had that problem. He got a response from mobile mechanic saying that it was probably the starter going bad.
That's exactly what my vehicle does.
Could be the solenoid.
Wish I'd have seen this a day earlier! Great video that will save time and effort.
great video...it has to be one of the most informative videos I've come across..
Where do I get that little piece of wire he sticks in the fuse opening to test the starter?
Man, your video saved me a whole lot of money. Keep up the great work.
I can't thank you enough for taking the time to make this video and share your knowledge. If there's any thing you could tell me that would help me out on a 2007 Pontiac G6 with a 3.5 L. I scanned it it said it was eecm I replaced it + reset the computer. And then I took the starter all went and had it tested if I would have only caught your video a day earlier it sure would have saved me a lot of time and energy. The starter tested good. I put it back in and now today I won't try testing it myself by your method just to make sure that the kid at the auto parts store didn't botch up the test. And I replace the battery before I did anything I have power to everything except from the key to the starter. And I hate to tear the whole - apart to replace the ignition if there might be something else I could try first thank you again appreciate you
Check PRNDL switch to make sure the vehicle knows its in park. One way to check that is to put it in neutral and see if it cranks over. If it does the switch is bad
@@m0bilemechanix Where is the PRNDL switch located
Probably the best car repair type video I have ever watched. Mentioned some really thorough shizz!!!
Thks, Man
Hey bro thanks a lot this helped me a lot I was stranded and I tryed this and my car turned right back on 👍
Thanks bud. Not the issue I was having but it did save me an enormous PIA getting what I was doing done!!! You rocK!!!
Thanks for sharing this! This worked perfect for me! I was changing my valve stem seals and this trick helped me rotate the engine forward to make sure the cylinder was TDC (top dead center). Awesome trick!
So
@@beverlyvaile7122 what the flying f?
Hes happy he used this for a different method, idk id recommend doing this, esp if you already have stuff apart, but to each their own
Great Tip thanks. In all my years of backyard wrenching I’ve never hear of this. Many thanks.
Your video helped me change out the starter in my 05 Tuscon. Many Thanks!!!
Chevy truck starter relay location
The best simple learning experience I got from this video.. thanks a million bro.. keep up the good work work u doing..
Great video. Text book how to. No wasted dialogue. Clear concise to the point
Thank you. Your video save me money and a headache!
I'm so glad that I found this video because I'm doing this without help. I will be trying it today and I'm praying it works. Thank you for the easy step by step instructions! 🙂 Carrie
Hey did it work for you?
@@937youngjay I couldn't figure it out and I'm still not able to drive. 😢
What is the red cable and where do I get that from.
@@maxxcruise5663did u find this out
Man that's a good tip to know. The vehicle has to be in neutral or park for this to work all the time, correct.
Good question, I wondered about that too. I’m not a mechanic but saw this issue mentioned in the comments. Apparently there’s a park sensor that could be bad and can prevent starting. That’s why he said to be careful in trying this method because it bypasses several safety systems. I just switched the starter relay and it started great. Didn’t touch the starter.
NO! This will work when the car is in gear. Thats why it is absolutely paramount that you make sure the vehicle is in park or neutral and not in gear.
If you do this while vehicle is in gear it WILL lurch 100% of the time and anyone under the vehicle or in front of it is very likely to be injured, and potentially severely injured, especially if anyone is under the vehicle.
Very wise to overly repeat neutral park brake and park some one that has enough info to be very dangerous if they’re not mechanically/technical minded.
That would be me! So the vehicle must be in neutral to use this faster wire method? If you are parked on a hill, front facing downward the hill, would you keep the emergency brake on and put in neutral to prevent any rolling? Or not use this method altogether? 😬
Wow thanks much bro. It worked on a Mercedes c240. My turn to give you a tip...never ever buy a Mercedes. I had to watch more videos just to put the stupid car in neutral. Im crossing fingers and toes That the relay Will solve my problem. Otherwise much much more videos on stupid safety switch to come. But today im glad i saved about 1000$ for a starter. Guess it worth a like.
Thanks a ton for your Video because I was literally starting to unscrew my mud shield under my Sierra and there was like 50 screws and that was when I thought to check the Internet for ideas. First one I came across was yours and helped me out. THANK YOU AGAIN! Patrick VH
Thanks for the comment!
@@m0bilemechanix a
I understand that this can help diagnose if the starter is bad but to test the starter directly is always going to be the best way because, if the starter ignition wire or ground wire is broken or corroded for example. It will still not start with this method, but other from that its a pretty neat trick
Wow, your video also helped me to possibly diagnose my intermittent starting problem. The battery is good. With your test now I'm not getting anything at all not even a click. The car just started 3X today than as it does every week or so no crank no start but does click... A few days later.. it starts again. Thank you so much for the video. Keep up the good work.
Sounds like a bad starter that works intermittent
@@m0bilemechanix Yes, you're correct. I have replaced it and now works. Something strange (to me) has happened. One of the bolt as I was screwing it in, about halfway it just went all the way in all at once, like there was no more tread inside. Now I can pull it with my hands halfway out. It's the correct bolt. I have no idea what to do.. the starter is actually holding with 2 bolts instead of 3.
@@deodea what's the vehicle and engine type
Video still helping people in 2023! Thanks
This video got me laid!!! Saved somebody else a chunk of money. Bad part of it is now I have to go see doctor because it hurts so bad when I sit down.
Good information. Only one time I used this technique and the starter didn't fire...yet , the starter was actually good. And it was due to voltage drop on the ground wire. Diagnosis can get complicated at times.
Great tip and thanks for sharing. This simple diagnostic step can save a lot of time and effort for sure.
Thanks for the prelim I absolutely agree that people have a low attention span and misconstrue a statement from a question and to walk and chew gum at the same time. Thank you for sharing your expertise on testing a good or bad starter. The process of elimination is the key, i have a Hyundai Veloster and no diagram on the relay switch.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Sir your video was an answer to my prayers. I have struggling messing around with the security saftey anti-theft system on my 2002 chevy silverado for some time now. I have done several supposed fixes at the steering column and ignition switch. These fixes were good for a time but something else would happen especially on hot days when the metal expands. Without getting into those details, your solution is THE complete bypass I was looking for without having to run new wires straight to the starter itself. The jump hot wire works great, now I intend to put a bypass starter switch in my cab and run the lines to the relay socket per your video. Thanks again and God bless!
Thank you so much about emphasizing on the battery voltage, I was getting ready to pull my starter out because it wouldn’t start after charging the battery so I figured must be the starter which did not look like fun and I kept thinking about what you said with 12.8 V, when I checked it it was 11.9. Saved me a lot of work.
I have an intermittent starting issue. Old truck, new to me. Starter was already replaced but is suspect. I've checked out everything except any possible anti theft circuitry. I should have thought of this myself, but I didnt. Thank you, I'll be giving this a shot tomorrow. Honestly, I hope it is the starter because I dont want to have to dig into the security system. Thanks for the tip!!
What is the gauge on the jump wire?
Thanks for the starter test tip done at
The fuse block! Awesome time saver!
Leaving the key out of the car, this is also should be good for turning the engine for gross positioning (not necessarily great for fine positioning) of a piston to wherever you need it... say TDC on the compression stroke... or setting static timing . This does not enable fuel injection or spark generation. Used to do this by shorting power TO the solenoid. Timing /dwell kits used to have wired remote (simple squeezer-switch, momentary contact) for clicking an engine over. That could be used here, too, between pins 30 & 87 on the starter relay socket.
Ok. Bonjour. Merci
That's a good tip for those of us that aren't used to push button starters, but still like to help a friend out in the garage.
Trying this out now!! I’ll comment again if it works…HOPEFULLY!!
Dang Skippy, GREAT trick, great explanation and great video. Spot on !
I appreciate you bro very helpful trying to diagnose my volvo xc70 smh it starts in the day time but not at night the craziest thing ever
Thank you very much for the video.
Worked perfectly diagnostically and saved myself a lot of time, effort and money 🙏
Further update. Replaced the relay but the problem has persisted. The car starts sometimes from the key and then it doesnt. I open the hood and use the wire to jump it. But now it doesnt always start straight away like before. It may take a repeated connecting of the wires before it turns over. Just a loud click is heard - same as when turning the key. Im guessing it is the starter motor itself.
Add on - found the problem this morning. Poor connection between the key and the key reader slip ring!! Just had to put some pressure on the key when turning and starts every time ☺️
@Vic02 No it's not a Ford. I'm in Australia and we have cars here made by Holden. Which come under GM I think. It's a Holden commodore.
@Vic02 interesting.
EXTREMLY valuable knowledge. Great work bro. Big help