2002 Cavalier won't start. Replaced the starter. Still won't start. Please help!?

Question

The car stopped working a few weeks ago. When my mom got paid she gave us the money to buy a new starter. Neither my husband or I have very much experience with cars but figured if we took lots of pictures as we went we could put the new one in. Everything went well, but it still didn't start. We even tried giving it a boost from our 2005 Odyssey but it still won't start. Could it be something else? Fuses, alternator, a wire? We really can't afford to take it to a mechanic right now so I'd appreciate any help you all can give us.

Answer 1

I think if it was your alternator you would be able to start it by jumping it.  It just wouldn't restart again.  Could it be the battery?

Answer 2

A lot of the newer Eco cavs have been having problems with fuel pumps. You will need to jack the rear of the car up. Try banging on the bottom of the gas tank with a rubber mallet or hard with fist ( i recommend mallet). Then try starting. The sending unit tends to short. If it starts, you need a pump.

Check this out: http://www.topix.net/forum/autos/chevrol...

Answer 3

does it try too  does it turn over, pop or whats doe it do besides not start you chack for spark at plugs you check for fuel at in of hose got to be one or the other even a battery or battery cables .. here might help just type in how to change what ever and it wil show you some thing how to check whatever

Answer 4

You say that it tries to start but can't Does that mean that you hear a clicking noise,i wish i new why you bought a new starter in the first place , did someone tell you that was your problem , because the way you said that you parked it and the next day it wouldn't start ,that could mean to your timing belt has broken and the engine is locked up. Ok , back to the starter , turn your key on then take a s***w driver and touch it to the two wire's on the starter to see if it will turn over, there will be sparks when you touch the two wire;s together with the s***w driver ,so don't freak out , if it has spark and doesn't turn over loosen the starter bolt up just in case you have it in a bind. , just back off of them a few turns each , then try to see if it will start up .

Answer 5

Replacing the starter wouldn't do you much good unless it had a hard time cranking the engine when you turn the key. It could be something as simple as your spark plugs being fouled up. Is the check engine light on? You should get it inspected by a mechanic before you spend any more money on parts.

Answer 6

believe it or not, you haven't given nearly enough information to answer your question.  Was the check engine light on?  Did the engine turn over or did it just make a clicking sound?  I am sure that if you can provide more details some one here can help you.