karenla4

My daughter is stranded with 2006 Aero. She reports turning key, NO CLICK, radio comes on, and all dash display needles vibrate wildly. Tried jumping and pressing the battery button before starting attempt. No success.

Anyone have a suggestion before we have the car towed 150 miles?

Thank you!

Roto

First, make her make sure that the ground cable on the battery is not loose. Second, make her turn the radio and all lights off. Is the car auto or manual? If manual - try bump starting the car. Also try to swap the battery and see if that helps. Just jumping the car doesn't always do it. Maybe try a jumper pack and not cables.

karenla4

Automatic trans. Headlights come on and stay on when key is turned; not sure how to disable. Can you give me some guidance on how to direct her to find the ground cable?
Thanks.

Roto

Look at the battery... there are markings for + and -. Ground is the MINUS cable. It's safe to grab and pull on it. If it turns on the post or moves around any - it needs tightening. Also have her check if there's any whitish powder around the terminals. That can be cleaned off if present... sometimes makes a difference. Also see if the car restarts when it cools down. Really, getting to the nearest parts store that can check the electrical system (Advance auto parts does so for free most times) is the best choice.

karenla4

Thanks for tips, Roto. No luck, but good to have for future reference. The car probably needs another new battery...we're on the fourth. Or maybe fifth.

Roto

That doesn't sound right. What brand batteries are you using? Have you tried diagnosing the charging system? Maybe you're getting it overcharged? Do you live in a really hot climate maybe?

cardozosula

Or maybe its not even a battery problem. When did you get the car routine serviced ?