Whats wrong with my 05' Chevy Malibu?

Question

I have an 05 chevy malibu maxx and today I was stopped to get gas. After I finished pumping I got back in my car and tried cranking it and all I hear was a click...while trying to crank it, my electrical system (i guess) started going crazy. All my cars icons (tc, airbag, engine, flashed when I turned the key) my radio was going on and off and they kept dimming. My windows and windshield wipers were going really slowly and I'm just wondering what this could be. I sat at the gas station for 5 minutes and then it cranked right up no problem. I thought at first it was the battery, but since it cranked right up, I'm guessing it isn't.

I'm definitely going to take it in, but can anyone give me any idea as to what this COULD be?

Answer 1

GM has a lot of problems with battery terminal connections at the battery.  If you can access the battery, take a 5/16 wrench a tighten the battery terminals.  Overtime they will loosen.  

When in doubt, take it to a trusted mechanic  

Answer 2

bad alternator?

Answer 3

Possibly big money if it's what went wrong with my G6 (same platform).  I've forgotten, but I believe they had to replace the whole steering column and I also think the warranties have been extended because of the number of problems, that is if it is the same cause as mine.

Answer 4

I think the problem is that it's a chevy

Answer 5

might wanna go get it checked

Answer 6

My best guess is your starter solenoid is starting to fail.  it can lock up and cause a short which would drain the juice form the initial start attempt  but when you tried it again you were past that notch on the start/solenoid connection and you got a good connection and a quick start.