Starting Problem

[dave33708]

We recently bought a 2004 Buick LeSabre. It began starting hard, about a week ago. It clicked, then would eventually start. After one week of starting hard, I had to get a jump, car started, drove it home in the dark, lights never dimmed. Checked the battery voltage gauge on the way home, battery was at 14.2 volts. Next day went out to start it, clicked, died, battery gauge was at about 8 volts. Finally after numerous trys, the car started. Then after running about 20 minutes, turned it off and it was the same thing, clicking, low voltage, radio clock reset to 12:00. Hoping it is something simple like the starter relay. Have read a years worth of post here, but haven't found anything with the same symptoms.
Other than this problem, we really love this car.

[imidazol97]

Originally Posted by dave33708

We recently bought a 2004 Buick LeSabre. It began starting hard, about a week ago. It clicked, then would eventually start. After one week of starting hard, I had to get a jump, car started, drove it home in the dark, lights never dimmed. Checked the battery voltage gauge on the way home, battery was at 14.2 volts. Next day went out to start it, clicked, died, battery gauge was at about 8 volts. Finally after numerous trys, the car started. Then after running about 20 minutes, turned it off and it was the same thing, clicking, low voltage, radio clock reset to 12:00. Hoping it is something simple like the starter relay. Have read a years worth of post here, but haven't found anything with the same symptoms.
Other than this problem, we really love this car.

the first thing I'd check is the ground cable for the battery under the rear seat onto the back floor pan. Be sure there's no rust by loosening then retightening the bolt on the floor pan. Check the connections at the battery as well. Then check the bolts holding the fuse blocks down both under the rear seat and up front under the hood.

Then I'd suspect a battery problem.

[maxwedge]

Agreed, my battery failed with the exact symptoms.

[HotZ28]

+2, Click Here for a recent thread from the PA forum, the same procedure applies to the LeSabre!

[dave33708]

I just wanted to thank everyone for their input. I actually had a dead cell in the battery. Got one put in at advanced auto parts, and the check afterwards showed something draining the battery after the car was shut off. The alternator needed replacing. So, bought one and had it put on for $50. Hopefully everything will be good for a long while.