Weak start C5 base model
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Pennsylvania, USA
Weak start C5 base model
I've had my battery for 3 1/2 years in my 2004 C5. Recently, it took me 2 tries to start it; it would always start instantly. I noticed a weak first start about a week ago, until this time when it took 2 starts. My question is should we say its the battery or another component, such as alternator (no weak lights), or another component. Can a diagnostic check at my mechanic determine this?
Thanks for any advice,
Thanks for any advice,
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 4,346
Likes: 755
From: Greensboro Nc
Yes, get the battery tested at an auto parts store. If you replace it, I would certainly recommend going with an AGM battery. Lots of stuff below the battery box that doesn’t like acid, and an AGM eliminates to worry.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,595
Likes: 4,055
From: Cape Coral, Florida
I've had my battery for 3 1/2 years in my 2004 C5. Recently, it took me 2 tries to start it; it would always start instantly. I noticed a weak first start about a week ago, until this time when it took 2 starts. My question is should we say its the battery or another component, such as alternator (no weak lights), or another component. Can a diagnostic check at my mechanic determine this?
Thanks for any advice,
Thanks for any advice,
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 3,399
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From: Havre de Grace Maryland
Is your car a auto or M6? Just got back from a hour drive with top down and at one stop the car would not start. After some thought, I realize I was not pushing the clutch in all the way down to trip the switch because of some issues with my left knee. Just a thought if you have a M6.
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Pennsylvania, USA
Had it tested at Walmart today. Diagnostic testing lasted about 1 1/2 hrs. Determined that new battery is needed. Mechanic noticed aftermarket stereo, woofer, big amp as just one of the things that contribute to the problem.
Last edited by mfloss; May 2, 2019 at 07:44 PM.
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Pennsylvania, USA
Cranks slow. Took to Walmart for diagnostics....new battery needed....cited possible reasons the aftermarket stereo system and other things that could be contributing but we don't know. But hearing all the things I've heard about battery problems with the C5, I'm happy with the 3 1/2 yrs since it cost only $119. I guess if I got something more robust it might but a little more time but you never know with any brand battery.
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