[Gary335]

Hi all, new member here. I'm having an issue with my 14 Cruze, and I'm hoping someone could shed some light on what the problem might be. For the past few weeks I have been unable to start my 14 Cruze without first giving it a jump start. It won't turn over at all, only click until I give it the jump start. This happens anytime the car sits for more than a short time, whether it be overnight, or just the time it takes to go into a store. A couple of weeks ago I noticed a large amount of battery acid on the positive lead, so much that you could barely see the lead. I've since cleaned everything, but that made no difference. Even after I start the car I can tell there's a problem. The blinkers don't blink right, sometimes some of the dashboard electronics don't come on at all for a minute or two after the car starts. I've had the battery, alternator, etc. tested and all are fine. SOMETHING has to be wrong. Anybody have any idea what the issue could be? I'm tired of having to jump start my car every time I turn it off. Thanks in advance for any insights!

 

[Gary335]

Tried to buy one today at an auto parts store, but they tested it and said it was just fine and recommended I take the car to the dealership to be looked at.

 

[Gary335]

I can't speak either on what type of tests they did, or how effective those tests are or are not, other than they had me do numerous things while a machine was connected to the battery, including rev the engine, turn on the AC, turn on the high beams. It was the most in-depth test I've had done on it yet. I had it tested once a week ago or so at another store and the guy just hooked his machine up to the battery, pressed a couple of buttons, and it spat out a piece of paper saying the battery needed charged. Problem there is I've tried to charge it, and it won't take a charge.

I'll check out the negative battery cable info you provided. That may be what it is. At this point I'll take any lead!

 

[Gary335]

Then I will get a new battery and hope that solves the problem. You guys are far more knowledgeable than I am so I have no doubt you know what your talking about. My car is, however, no longer under the bumper-to-bumper, so it's going to cost me.

 

[Gary335]

That's exactly what I was going to do. Walmart is about a minute away, whereas my dealer is about 30. I think the EverStart battery they sell will do just fine.

I appreciate all of the great advice from everyone. I will be going in the morning for a new battery and hoping it solves the problem!