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!
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.
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. 👍
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 🎉
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
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 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.
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.😀
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 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.
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???
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!!
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!!
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 !!
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 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. 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.
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!!
When I forget to push by bypass switch so it doesn’t turn off and lights. It sometimes acts like it isn’t going to start like it hesitates before it starts to crank. I have a 6 month old battery & connections are clean & tight. I just went out to see where the relay is. It was not seated well. I’m n fact all the relays and fuses were not seated well. So I pushed them back in. We’re in Texas and it’s been hot. I figured they worked out because of that. Anyway, I’ll check it out and see if that was the problem. I had a neighbor that would help me out in diagnosing any mechanical issues. He was an elderly individual (80+) and sharp as a tack. He died over a year ago so I didn’t have anyone I trusted to ask about my infrequent starter issues. Glad I saw this. Thanks
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 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.
I have been troubleshooting a no crank no start issue for a couple days. I replaced a bad spark plug and coil, I also replaced a much needed throttle body, and none of that worked for getting rid of the wrench icon or allowing the truck to start. Because of your video, I did your test (After purchasing a starter LOL), and pulled the starter relay, I then used a jumper wire following the diagram, and incredibly it turned over the starter. What was weird is that before doing this, I went under the truck (2007 Expedition), and tested the voltage going into the solenoid, it was fine, but when I put a lead on the outgoing (or the smaller wire), there was no voltage when trying to start the truck. I though at that point it was the solenoid or the starter or both, but after the truck started (using your method of testing), I started testing fuses (under the hood fuse box), and found a fuse that was blown (15amp) number 37. I replaced the fuse, and went inside the truck to try again for laughs - feeling like a total idiot thinking something like a simple fuse would actually do anything, but why not right?... I put the key into the ignition, and turned it on, and then held my breath, turned the key to the start position, and oh my goodness - it started and wrench light and traction control light was gone - Mercy sakes, I was so bewildered. I then went to my owners manual to find out what that fuse was, and it was the Transmission B+ fuse, so I am assuming that that is what was causing the wrench icon and traction control icon to show at the same time. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this video, it saved me from wondering if I would ever figure this problem out. Something as simple as a little fuse. Everyone having issues, please start checking all fuses, because you just never know that this serious issue may just be a little fuse. 👍👍👍
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 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
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.
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.
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
Very helpful, thanks for posting. I pulled my starter and had it tested. My starter relay fender mounted clicks when turning the key. I'm guessing it is another relay in the fuse box like in the video. Maybe the fuse, the relay you bypassed or the actual wire is bad....
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!
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.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU ! This was my problem. All of these relays make me sick ! The cars I grew up with (1960 - 1975) just had a cable going straight from the battery to the starter and fuel pumps were on the side of the engine with two bolts and a fuel line, etc What's wrong with that ?
Thank you for the info! im working on 05 2.3L durotech , need to do compression test with out using key, and not to run fuel or to kill all 4 coils!!! thanks a million!
this is honestly genius. I really didn't want to crawl under my car, and this got my starter to turn. So! Battery is good (12.4 volts), terminals are clean, starter relay is good (I swapped it with a neighboring relay to make sure) and by using this test, starter works. where should I look next?!
Finally got my truck to start (2016 silverado). It actually didn't by bypassing the relay but i cleaned the relay. It actually had some green colored corrosion🤔. Anyways cleaned it, wiggled it and VROOM!!! It started after several days of trouble shooting.😛😜🤪🤗. Thanks for the video.
Thank you!!! Very informative. Our weather has turned cold and the engine was hard to crank. I thought that was the problem. A day later, I tried to start again and only got clicks and flashes on the dash. Jumped the battery and had it checked. Apparently the battery is fine and just a little less than a year old. I have an appointment in the morning at the dealer to get this resolved. I just wanted to see what others had found or done!
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?
Great idea. I thought for sure my starter went bad. After following your idea to jump start the starter, it turned. Easy to figure out it was my battery
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
Well, I like to thank you so much for your video that helped me start my hummer. I had a different scenario some rats chewed on some wiring in the gear consul. Everything would engage as I turned the key but would not get the starter to start so I did your jumpstart from the relay and worked just fine much appreciated for your inspiring video, and I have one more issue that the road and had chewed the wiring as well, which is not allowing me to engage my gearshift to any other gear stuck in park
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.
Wish I found you sir instead of paying almost $800 for a diagnosis from my mechanic of a water pump and spark plugs.. only to get in my car the next day only to find it would not start Waiting for the return of a tow truck Cathi from Jarrettsville, Md
Thank you soo much i never comment but for over a week and $$$ later of trying to get my bfs Chrysler town and country to start and days searching on here I found this video last night and showed it my bf. We immediately tried this and determined the starter was good. We did the same thing to another starter fuse with the key off and nothing. turned the key to acc and tried again to get a little something from the starter. Just to see if we did anything I suggested to try and start it and it did😁😁 haven't had an issue since. its started 3 times and then started today again perfectly. Weve determined its something to do with the relay causing security issues and not the fuses THANK YOU 😁😁 we were a day away from bringing it back into the shop. Replacing fuses anyway just to be safe.
Good video. I wish my starter relay looked like this, but the contacts are in different spots and they aren't labeled. Now I don't know what to do and everywhere I look online says nothing about this.
Thank you so much for this video. It helped me tremendously. I thought my starter was bad. Still not sure what was wrong but it starts and runs now after sitting for 4 years.
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 ☺️
Brilliant! I have a 1997 Ford Explorer. I don't have anything named "starter relay." I do have a "PCM relay." Is that the same thing? I think it is, but wanted to confirm. The starter solenoid on the inside fender/wheel well checks out OK after testing it, so I've eliminated that. I'm gonna try this hack tomorrow.
![How To Test and Diagnose Relays and Wiring [4 & 5 Pin]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/S-DwV0HLsE4/mqdefault.jpg)
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
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.
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
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.
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.
You may not wear a cape, sir, but im my books, youre a hero. Thank you for this short, precise, yet golden information.
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
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!
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.
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!
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!
Sounds more like Xavier Bardem to me ...
Yep. These are the kinds of videos we need on here. Great job explaining how to make it easier to find the issue.
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.
Congrats on your patience answering the same questions over and over again for YEARS!
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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 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.
Wow. Being a mechanic is more than just nuts and bolts. Incredible
Thank you I learned alot
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 🎉
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
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.
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! I used this info to test my starter. It was a bad battery connection that looked solid. You saved me Hundreds!
I have forgotten so much about working on cars that this simple test brought back memories
Thanks for the video, I was about to call a wrecker, and send it to the shop, helped me save some money, helped out a lot thanks.
good to see us old motor heads helping each other out.
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@@curtisschaaf6569 30mins
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@@curtisschaaf6569 t
i don’t know what i would do without y’all lol
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.😀
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!
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.
Awesome advice! You just saved me $300 on an alternator. God bless you! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
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!
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???
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
Definetly just saved us from pulling the starter on a 96 degree day. I really appreciate you taking the time.
Man, oh man....you just saved me a whole bunch of time and money! THANK YOU! Car FIXED!
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.
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!!
Great Tip thanks. In all my years of backyard wrenching I’ve never hear of this. Many thanks.
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 !!
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.
30 and 87, got it! You saved me $230 I'm taking back this starter to auto zone for a refund
YES ! I was just trying to see if I could jump the solenoid but I couldn't see it well enough, thank you RUclips!
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
Really appreciate your style and method. Very easy to follow and understand. I am a deskbound guy, not a car guy. Thank you
seriously, it's nice to know videos like this exist. very well done.
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
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.
Can't thank you enough mate, enabled me to sort things out on my own without paying someone else, great video 😊
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!!
Hey bro thanks a lot this helped me a lot I was stranded and I tryed this and my car turned right back on 👍
When I forget to push by bypass switch so it doesn’t turn off and lights. It sometimes acts like it isn’t going to start like it hesitates before it starts to crank. I have a 6 month old battery & connections are clean & tight. I just went out to see where the relay is. It was not seated well. I’m n fact all the relays and fuses were not seated well. So I pushed them back in. We’re in Texas and it’s been hot. I figured they worked out because of that. Anyway, I’ll check it out and see if that was the problem.
I had a neighbor that would help me out in diagnosing any mechanical issues. He was an elderly individual (80+) and sharp as a tack. He died over a year ago so I didn’t have anyone I trusted to ask about my infrequent starter issues. Glad I saw this.
Thanks
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
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.
Nice! I used this to get the car running so I could take to the parts store.
I have been troubleshooting a no crank no start issue for a couple days. I replaced a bad spark plug and coil, I also replaced a much needed throttle body, and none of that worked for getting rid of the wrench icon or allowing the truck to start. Because of your video, I did your test (After purchasing a starter LOL), and pulled the starter relay, I then used a jumper wire following the diagram, and incredibly it turned over the starter. What was weird is that before doing this, I went under the truck (2007 Expedition), and tested the voltage going into the solenoid, it was fine, but when I put a lead on the outgoing (or the smaller wire), there was no voltage when trying to start the truck. I though at that point it was the solenoid or the starter or both, but after the truck started (using your method of testing), I started testing fuses (under the hood fuse box), and found a fuse that was blown (15amp) number 37. I replaced the fuse, and went inside the truck to try again for laughs - feeling like a total idiot thinking something like a simple fuse would actually do anything, but why not right?... I put the key into the ignition, and turned it on, and then held my breath, turned the key to the start position, and oh my goodness - it started and wrench light and traction control light was gone - Mercy sakes, I was so bewildered. I then went to my owners manual to find out what that fuse was, and it was the Transmission B+ fuse, so I am assuming that that is what was causing the wrench icon and traction control icon to show at the same time.
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this video, it saved me from wondering if I would ever figure this problem out. Something as simple as a little fuse. Everyone having issues, please start checking all fuses, because you just never know that this serious issue may just be a little fuse. 👍👍👍
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.
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
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.
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.
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
Great video. Text book how to. No wasted dialogue. Clear concise to the point
Probably the best car repair type video I have ever watched. Mentioned some really thorough shizz!!!
Thks, Man
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
Very helpful, thanks for posting. I pulled my starter and had it tested. My starter relay fender mounted clicks when turning the key. I'm guessing it is another relay in the fuse box like in the video. Maybe the fuse, the relay you bypassed or the actual wire is bad....
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!
The best simple learning experience I got from this video.. thanks a million bro.. keep up the good work work u doing..
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
THANK YOU, THANK YOU ! This was my problem. All of these relays make me sick ! The cars I grew up with (1960 - 1975) just had a cable going straight from the battery to the starter and fuel pumps were on the side of the engine with two bolts and a fuel line, etc What's wrong with that ?
Your video helped me change out the starter in my 05 Tuscon. Many Thanks!!!
Chevy truck starter relay location
Thank you for the info! im working on 05 2.3L durotech , need to do compression test with out using key, and not to run fuel or to kill all 4 coils!!! thanks a million!
Ya this is perfect for that
Video still helping people in 2023! Thanks
this is honestly genius. I really didn't want to crawl under my car, and this got my starter to turn.
So! Battery is good (12.4 volts), terminals are clean, starter relay is good (I swapped it with a neighboring relay to make sure) and by using this test, starter works. where should I look next?!
I'm having the same problem with my Vic, shit just will not start and it has a brand new starter.
Finally got my truck to start (2016 silverado). It actually didn't by bypassing the relay but i cleaned the relay. It actually had some green colored corrosion🤔. Anyways cleaned it, wiggled it and VROOM!!! It started after several days of trouble shooting.😛😜🤪🤗. Thanks for the video.
Thank you!!! Very informative. Our weather has turned cold and the engine was hard to crank. I thought that was the problem. A day later, I tried to start again and only got clicks and flashes on the dash. Jumped the battery and had it checked. Apparently the battery is fine and just a little less than a year old. I have an appointment in the morning at the dealer to get this resolved. I just wanted to see what others had found or done!
What was the problem? Mine is just clicking. Very cold and raining here in cali.
@wadow48able what was your problem?
@@johndoe5_590you find out? Was your engine struggling to crank over ?
What was the problem
What was the problem bro? Cuz everybody curious.
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
Great idea. I thought for sure my starter went bad. After following your idea to jump start the starter, it turned. Easy to figure out it was my battery
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
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
Well, I like to thank you so much for your video that helped me start my hummer. I had a different scenario some rats chewed on some wiring in the gear consul. Everything would engage as I turned the key but would not get the starter to start so I did your jumpstart from the relay and worked just fine much appreciated for your inspiring video, and I have one more issue that the road and had chewed the wiring as well, which is not allowing me to engage my gearshift to any other gear stuck in park
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.
Wish I found you sir instead of paying almost $800 for a diagnosis from my mechanic of a water pump and spark plugs.. only to get in my car the next day only to find it would not start
Waiting for the return of a tow truck
Cathi from Jarrettsville, Md
Thank you soo much i never comment but for over a week and $$$ later of trying to get my bfs Chrysler town and country to start and days searching on here I found this video last night and showed it my bf. We immediately tried this and determined the starter was good. We did the same thing to another starter fuse with the key off and nothing. turned the key to acc and tried again to get a little something from the starter. Just to see if we did anything I suggested to try and start it and it did😁😁 haven't had an issue since. its started 3 times and then started today again perfectly. Weve determined its something to do with the relay causing security issues and not the fuses THANK YOU 😁😁 we were a day away from bringing it back into the shop. Replacing fuses anyway just to be safe.
Happy it helped in some way hopefully you got it figured out
Good video. I wish my starter relay looked like this, but the contacts are in different spots and they aren't labeled. Now I don't know what to do and everywhere I look online says nothing about this.
Great tip and thanks for sharing. This simple diagnostic step can save a lot of time and effort for sure.
Thanks bud. Not the issue I was having but it did save me an enormous PIA getting what I was doing done!!! You rocK!!!
Thank you so much for this video. It helped me tremendously. I thought my starter was bad. Still not sure what was wrong but it starts and runs now after sitting for 4 years.
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.
Brilliant! I have a 1997 Ford Explorer. I don't have anything named "starter relay." I do have a "PCM relay." Is that the same thing? I think it is, but wanted to confirm. The starter solenoid on the inside fender/wheel well checks out OK after testing it, so I've eliminated that. I'm gonna try this hack tomorrow.
Thank you so much for this video! After a month of trying to get my car starter nothing. Did this and got it started😁