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My 2001 Subaru Forester won't start. It seems ...
Sent to Car Experts September 06 12:30 AM

My 2001 Subaru Forester won't start. It seems that the entire electrical system has shut down, no headlights or interior lights. When I push down the clutch and turn the key there is NO sound at all.

 

Optional Information:
2001 Subaru

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
September 6 12:43 AM (13 minutes and 11 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark
Have you checked the battery cables for being clean, tight and corrosion free? Also closely check all the fuses for any that may be blown related to the cranking or starter. If the headlamps don't even come on try jump starting the battery and retesting. Check all these things and let me know what you find ok.


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Reply
September 6 12:47 AM (4 minutes and 25 seconds later)
         
Reply to Dan's Post: I don't really think it is a battery problem. Could it be the alternator?
Answer
September 6 12:52 AM (4 minutes and 39 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
If there is no power to crank the engine then the alternator wouldn't come into effect because all that does is charge the battery once the engine is running. I would start with the battery and its' connections. If they are good and the battery load tests ok then move on to visual inspection of things like the fuses, relays (especially crank and starter relays), electrical connections at the fuse block, etc. If the car was dead after sitting for any length of time verify the headlamps or domelamps weren't left on and proceed from there.


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