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frustrated
Sent to Car Experts January 05 11:59 PM

Toyota Camry '94 (very good condition prior to accident...only a small, persistent oil leak)

I was recently in a car accident. There was damage to the front bumper, the radiator, the AC fan, the hood, and the passenger side lights. The work done on the car seems well done. However, my car did not start this afternoon. I turned it off last night at 11:00pm and attempted to start at 2:00pm today. There is a small chance the door was left ajar and the dome light remained on draining the battery. I have given the car a boost, but it will not turn over and there is odd, unfamiliar behavior. The electrical system seems to be charged and the car will light up the door ajar light and the ignigition key guide and all inside lights, move the mirrors, move the windows, etc. But, the door needs to be open and the foot off the brake. Also, turning on the lights or attempting to turn on the ignition fully will kill it. I can then reset to the electrical running position with the door open. What should I do? Is the problem with the starter or engine? My gas tank is also low, but this seems extraneous since the car doesn't get far enough in the starting process. This is a new problem. I believe the battery is charged now, as well. What is your suggestion for further action?

Optional Information:
1994 Toyota Camry 4 cylinder

Already Tried:
Boosted battery for 30 minutes; car did not start. Checked fuses, but not in detail.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
January 6 6:44 AM (6 hours and 45 minutes later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark
The first thing you are going to have to do is remove the battery and have it checked or just replace it.If the interior lights go out when you attempt to start it or turn the headlights on you don't have enough battery power.If you have corrosion on the battery terminals it will need cleaned of to make a good connection.If it's excessive you should replace the battery cables.I have a feeling if you replace the battery it will start.After you get it running you should check the voltage across the battery terminals.You should have 13.5-14.8 volts if the alternator is working properly.If you don't chances are you will also need an alternator.


Master ASE Certified.L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certified.Pa Emission Repair Technician.Just Answer Car Category Mentor.
Reply
January 7 12:26 PM (1 day and 5 hours later)
         
Reply to Davo/diablo666's Post: the problem was a loose connection on the batterie terminals. i simply tightened them up and the problem was solved. thanks for the assistance, though.
Answer
January 7 12:34 PM (8 minutes and 50 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Glad it is fixed I guess I sent you in the right direction by telling you to check the battery terminals for corrosion.Please click on my accept button if I have helped you in any way.


Master ASE Certified.L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certified.Pa Emission Repair Technician.Just Answer Car Category Mentor.
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