Troubleshooting Tips if Your Dodge Charger Won’t Start But Lights Work

The most likely cause of this issue is an issue with the battery or the starter motor.

Dodge Charger Won’T Start But Lights Work

If you’re having trouble starting your Dodge Charger but the lights work, you’re likely dealing with an issue beyond a flat battery or corrosion around the terminals. When this problem arises, it’s typically due to several issues related to the starter and ignition switch. Because both of these components are essential to getting your engine running, it’s important to investigate the issue and take appropriate action as soon as possible. In this guide, we’ll discuss potential issues within these two components and how you can best diagnose and resolve them.

Battery Problem

If your Dodge Charger won’t start but the lights are working, then the first thing to check is the battery. You should check the wiring for any loose connections or damaged parts, and test the voltage of the battery with a digital multimeter. If your voltage is below 12 volts, it’s time to replace your battery.

Ignition Problem

If the battery appears to be in good condition, then you should check the ignition system. Make sure that the spark plug is positioned correctly, and inspect all of its connectors for any corrosion or damage. You can also test your ignition system with a spark tester tool.

Starter Motor Problem

The next step is to check the starter motor for any corrosion or damaged wires. You can remove and inspect each wire for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Once you have visually inspected all of the wires, test them for voltage output with a digital multimeter. If there is no output from any of the wires then it’s likely that the starter motor needs to be replaced.

Alternator Problem

If all other components appear to be in working order, then you should take a look at your alternator. Make sure that your belt is properly adjusted, and check that all of its lights are properly situated so they can be seen on the dashboard. Lastly, you should test its regulator output with a digital multimeter to make sure it’s working correctly.

Fuel System Problem

The last step in troubleshooting why your Dodge Charger won’t start but lights work is to inspect and clean fuel lines of monitors, filters, and hoses. This will ensure that proper fuel levels are reached when trying to start your vehicle, as well as prevent any blockages in fuel delivery lines that could prevent starting.

Computer System Issue

If your Dodge Charger won’t start but the lights work, the issue may be related to the computer system. The best way to diagnose this problem is to use a scanner tool to delete any fault codes that have been stored in the computer system. If there are no fault codes present, then it is likely that either the PCM or ECM needs to be replaced.

Fuse Box Issue

Another possible cause of a Dodge Charger not starting with working lights is a fuse box issue. To check for this, inspect the fuse box for any loose or faulty wires that could be causing an electrical short circuit. If any of these are found, they should be replaced before attempting to start the vehicle again. Additionally, inspect all of the fuses in the fuse box and replace any that are damaged.

Airflow Sensor Issue

The airflow sensor can also cause a Dodge Charger not starting with working lights. To check for this issue, clean the air flow sensor using compressed air and a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or distilled water. If this does not resolve the issue, then you may need to replace or clean the MAF sensor as well.

Relays Control Issues

Finally, relays control issues can prevent your Dodge Charger from starting with working lights. To check for this issue, remove each power relay from its socket and inspect it for corrosion or other signs of damage. If any of these relays are found to be damaged, they should be replaced and all fuses should be checked and replaced if necessary as well.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What could be the issue if my Dodge Charger won’t start but the lights work?
A: There are several potential causes for a Dodge Charger not starting, such as a battery problem, ignition problem, starter motor problem, alternator problem, fuel system problem, computer system issue, fuse box issue, airflow sensor issue or relays control issues.

Q: How can I check for a battery problem?
A: To check for a battery problem you should check the wiring and voltage. If both of these are ok then the battery is likely not the cause of your starting issues.

Q: How can I check for an ignition problem?
A: To check for an ignition problem you should check the spark plug position and connectors. If these are in good condition then its unlikely that they are causing your starting issues.

Q: How can I check for a starter motor problem?
A: To check for a starter motor problem you should check for corrosion and damaged wires and test for voltage output. If both of these are in good condition then its unlikely that they are causing your starting issues.

Q: How can I inspect and clean fuel lines on my Dodge Charger?
A: To inspect and clean fuel lines on your Dodge Charger you should inspect all monitors, filters and hoses and ensure proper fuel level. If all of these components are in good condition then its unlikely that they are causing your starting issues.

Based on the information given, it is likely that the issue is related to the electrical system or starter motor of the Dodge Charger. It is important to have a qualified technician diagnose the car in order to determine the exact cause of the problem and devise an appropriate repair.