2003 Cavilier 5speed won't start. Why?

Asked by Dd245 Aug 25, 2012 at 09:57 PM about the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Coupe FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The starter spins freely but doesn't seem to catch the flywheel.  Therefore the engine does not turn over.  Just the
starter spins.  Any suggestions where to begin my search as to why?
Thx. Dan

3 Answers

4,995

start by checking if the bendix in the starter engages on the flyweel.

4 people found this helpful.
69,075

Starter is bad!!! If its getting the power to spin, then the arm will have power to engage the gear into the flywheel. In some cases there is no arm the gear is engaged from the starter turning. As it spins the gear heads down the shaft via a spiral groove cut into the shaft. Either way the starter is bad

1 people found this helpful.
69,075

1 more very unlikely thing could be the teeth on the flywheel are gone whether ground or broken. Does it always do it (I'm assuming u push start it)

Your Answer:

Cavalier

Looking for a Used Cavalier in your area?

CarGurus has 42 nationwide Cavalier listings and the tools to find you a great deal.

ZIP:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2003 Chevrolet Cavalier

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    John Saffrahn
    Reputation
    4,830
  • #2
    dandyoun
    Reputation
    1,990
  • #3
    mbar1
    Reputation
    1,670
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Chevrolet Camaro
617 Great Deals out of 9,294 listings starting at $4,899
Used Chevrolet S-10
3 Great Deals out of 163 listings starting at $3,899
Used Chevrolet Malibu
1,017 Great Deals out of 19,878 listings starting at $700
Used Pontiac Sunfire
21 listings

Used Cars For Sale

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.