2001 Chevy Cavalier does not turn over when I turn the key. When I push the 5 speed car and let out the clutch then it starts and runs fine. What does this mean --- needs a new starter?

Asked by Wiita Nov 19, 2013 at 12:02 PM about the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Coupe FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Perhaps the anti-theft system is the culprit? Starter solenoid?

3 Answers

50,765

Battery? Have the battery checked. You may be running off the alternator after starting it. Does this only happen when the car has been setting overnight? Will it start normally after you have been driving it for a while, charging up the battery? If that is the case, it may be the battery going bad. If not, will it start with a jump start? If jump start attempt will not turn over the motor, it just could be the starter, or anything in between. If it starts after you have been driving it for a whole, it may not be in the starter but the battery.

50,765

In the 50s, we used to strike the solenoid with a small ball paean hammer. The solenoids have been improved, but they still can go bad since we seem to have let quality go by the wayside.

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