C4 Electric Problems
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2022
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
C4 Electric Problems
Hi everyone. Recently, I have been attempting to start my 1994 C4 but it would struggle to start. As time has gone on more issues have arisen such as when turning the key the electronic systems are fully functional where I get power to the interior lighting and the LCD but then when I attempt to start the car it clicks and then everything turns off on me. However, even with these problems sometimes I am able to put the key in and put it into neutral, push the car back, and eventually the electric systems will turn on again and I will be able to start the car. Today, I attempted the same method but this time it failed and when I turned the key the electric systems worked but when I attempted to full turn everything died on me. Sorry if the details are a little unclear and if there's anything I can clarify let me know. I'm not sure if its an electric issue (even though I changed the battery 2 weeks ago) or if there is a problem of wiring or even the mass flow sensors. If you guys have any advice it would be a great help to hear, thanks.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,355
Likes: 396
From: Northwest Ohio
I had symptoms like this with a brand new battery. I would turn key to ON and everything lit up. Then go to “start” and the whole car would go completely dark/no power.
It was just the connections at the battery not being tight enough.
I suggest you disconnect the battery, clean the terminals and the cables and reattach firmly. Then give it a try. Throw some dielectric grease on there too for good measure.
It was just the connections at the battery not being tight enough.
I suggest you disconnect the battery, clean the terminals and the cables and reattach firmly. Then give it a try. Throw some dielectric grease on there too for good measure.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 128
Likes: 26
With a new battery sounds like a grounding/connection problem. Check the engine ground, starter connections and ignition connections at least. It could be the starter too or the starter circuit. I think someone has once reported the ignition switch to be at fault.
Edit: of course measure the new battery, maybe something has discharged it.
Edit: of course measure the new battery, maybe something has discharged it.
Last edited by frosted; Apr 18, 2023 at 02:05 PM.
