DIY: Solenoid Relay Replacement

If your car or truck will not start and the battery tests positive, you may have a problem with your starter's solenoid. Your starter's solenoid is sparked by your car's battery, which in turn, engages the starter to start your vehicle. If you remove the solenoid and test it with a volt meter and it appears to be working, the problem is likely to lie with the solenoid's relay. The relay is basically a powerful fuse which powers your solenoid.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Replacement starter solenoid

Instructions

1. Open your hood and remove the negative battery cable with your socket set. Standard socket size to remove the battery cable bolt is a 1/2-inch or a 9/16 socket.

2. Locate the main relay fuse panel for your vehicle. In most models, it is located inside your engine compartment. However, the side it is located on may vary with make and model. Consult your owner's manual or an auto parts store to determine the location of the relay box and the correct size solenoid relay for the make and model of your vehicle.

3. Pull the cover of your car's relay panel off. Depending on the make and model, there may be two tabs on the side of the panel cover that need to be depressed by hand as you pull the cover off.

4. Locate the solenoid relay by reading the relay panel diagram on the inside lid of the panel cover.

5. Pull out the old solenoid relay and insert the new one. Replace the relay panel cover.

6. Replace your negative battery cable and tighten it.

References

• Auto Repair for Dummies; 2008; Deanna Sclar