C5 wont start, only clicks

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Sep 30, 2018 | 02:53 PM

Stormin813

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Heel & Toe

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C5 wont start, only clicks

I got back from vacation and my 1999 C5 vette was completely dead. Tried to jumper with 2 different cars and I only heard a clicking when I turned the key. Replaced the battery, it was due anyway, and it still only clicks when turning the key.

Help.

Norm.

Sep 30, 2018 | 04:13 PM

Stormin813

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Heel & Toe

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Thanx for the quick response. The Security light blinks constantly. And there is a buzzing by the glove box when I enter the car.

Oct 1, 2018 | 10:39 AM

mmartinez

Melting Slicks

Joined: Sep 2008

Posts: 3,138

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From: Espanola New Mexico

Check battery connections as mentioned in previous post, but have someone try to start the car while you listen to the starter, if there is clicking at the starter then you have a bad starter solenoid, oh also check the TDR that's Theft Deterrent Relay located in the passenger footwell area, they have been known to fail.

Oct 1, 2018 | 08:11 PM

Stormin813

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Heel & Toe

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I can even get to the readings, but "Service column lock - Low Voltage" continues. Does this help I hope?

Oct 3, 2018 | 07:15 AM

Stormin813

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I was able to take out the fuse box below the glove compartment and it sounds like something is loose inside the unit. There is a sparking and a smell of something burning. Its not constant so it must be a wire or something that has popped out and is arcing. Is there a way to open the unit up to have a look?

Oct 4, 2018 | 07:10 AM

Stormin813

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Im hoping this is the issue because I cant get any readings from the DIC.

Can the fuse box be opened easily?

Oct 4, 2018 | 01:37 PM

BRKLYN

Burning Brakes

Joined: Sep 2006

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From: The Natures Coast/Caribbean

Mine did it two years ago attend 98k. Battery was a year old, turned out to be the starter.

Oct 5, 2018 | 06:18 PM

dogboy

Melting Slicks

Joined: May 2000

Posts: 2,305

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From: Orlando,Fl,USA

Quote:

Originally Posted by BRKLYN

Mine did it two years ago attend 98k. Battery was a year old, turned out to be the starter.

I had bad wires at the starter that did this to mine a few years ago. Replace starter because header heat finally got to the plastic & it became so brittle it started to crumble. I also found burnt insulation on those wires. Replaced & repaired & all was well. (2000 C5)