Hi folks. I have a 2008 Coupe which I purchased new in 2010. A month ago, it began to not start. I hear the rapid clicking sounds so I think the starter is good. I jumped the battery, and it starts up quickly. Did that several times and decided to get a new battery at Costco. Long story short. I took the battery to a local Chrysler dealer and had them replace my battery. On the way home, I stopped over at a few places and the car started quickly and powerfully two times. On the third time, it only clicked rapidly but won't start. Had to jump it, but it would not start. Persisted with the jumper cable on for 5 mins and it finally started. I got home -- which is only about 2 miles from last jump -- and tried restarting but it won't start. Just the rapid clicking.


Questions:
1. Does that seems like my alternator is bad?
2. Any thoughts on what devious thing my dealership could have done to create a new problem that didn't exist before?
3. Any other thoughts?


I'd really appreciate your thoughts.


My first try will be to get the batter replaced at Costco and see if the current battery was just a lemon.
If that does not work, take it to the dealership. I'm a bit suspicious though.


Mike

 

I would be carefully checking the battery ground ( negative ) connection, it can tend to corrode at the bolt on the fender well.

 

Thanks for the response. My battery did have fair amount of corrosion build up on the positive terminal. I cleaned it up with baking soda and water. Not sure if the technician who replaced the battery did more cleaning. I'll have to check that out.

 

I cleaned the terminal area thoroughly yesterday and viola, the engine started without a hitch. Your advice was spot on. Thanks.

 

While the car is running, disconnect the battery. If the car dies, your alternator is bad.

 

Yea, that's one way to do it, but NOT a good idea.
I prefer the 13.8-14.2 volts reading when running, 12.2-12.8 when off method though.

 

THAT is dangerous advice. A voltmeter will tell you if the alternator is charging, but to disconnect the battery while the engine is running means that the alternator is driving the electrical system with no filter (an automotive storage battery is one HELL of a filter capacitor).

I don't see taking such a risk when a $30 meter from Lowes or any auto parts store will tell you what you want to know.

 

That could be one costly diagnoses...

 

Used to be done BUT since all the computers/electronics, NEVER do this!


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Very nice discussion. Thanks for all the helpful replies. Crossfire Forum is one great place. No, I take that back. It's the only great place for Crossfire owners.

 

Yes best & only place for advice from people who really know & care !!!