Recently My 2002 Cavalier with a 2200 OHV engine has been having trouble starting. It's kind of a weird start where the engine turns over a few times very slowly and then fires up. This happens about 90% of the time I try to start my car. The other 10% it starts just fine. I checked the battery and it is at 14.2V, so I don't think that is the problem. The Car is completely stock except for an Amp and two subs. The audio equipment has been in the car long before this problem started. I was told by a mechanic buddy of mine that this problem is usually caused by corrosion on the battery terminals. I cleaned the terminals and the connectors and I am still having this problem. I was also told it could be my starter going bad.

Any one here have any thoughts?

Thanks.

I am currently having kind of the same problem. Every now and then it will start to turn over, then its completely dead, no noise at all even with the key turned for about a second and then will start. A friend recommenced getting a new battery, havent had the time to get it checked out yet. In my case i doubt it's the starter, i see no reason why that would be going out already. I also have car audio stuff and the battery has never been changed, and it is an 04. So im assuming mine is the battery.

Not sure if this helps but yea, maybe with your audio stuff those 14volts just isnt enough.

My 92 2.2L does the same thing. Sometimes it starts but is running rough, sounds and feels like its missing on a cylinder or two. Just give it a little bit of gas to get the revs up a little bit for a moment, and it smooths out and idles normal. Nothing to worry about IMO.

I spoke with another mechanic buddy of mine who said he highly doubts it's the starter. I will be replacing the battery this weekend as I still have the Original AC Delco in there. Since it's a 2002, I wouldn't doubt that's the problem. I'll let you guys know how I make out.

Nick: Not to sound like a flamer, but I think your issue is entirely different. I think you have a air/gas/spark issue and not a starting issue.

Colby: I'll let you know what I find out this weekend as most likely you are having the same problem, just a little worse. It's probably the battery. Saves my ass because the starter is way more expensive.