Starter Not Working - Clutch Switch Relay Bypassed with Staples

Electricalbeginner✓ OP Confirmed

Problem

Car would not crank at all when turning the key to the start position. All accessories (clock, radio, climate control) worked normally and turned off when the key was moved to the crank position, but the starter would not engage or make any attempt to turn over.

No crank when key turned to start positionAll accessories work normally in accessory positionAccessories turn off when key moved to crank position (normal behavior)No clicking from starter or starter relayFuel pump click heard at key-onProblem persisted even with jump start from another vehicleProblem persisted with battery boosted to 11.7V

Root Cause

The previous owner had attempted a clutch safety switch bypass by shoving metal staples into the clutch button relay socket in the passenger side junction box. The staples eventually broke from the electrical current passing through them, creating an open circuit that prevented the starter relay from being activated.

Confidence

High confidence — Original poster confirmed this resolved the issue

View Original Thread →Posted November 2024 on SupraForums.com