My 1999 GMC Jimmy will not start and its really cold out, what could be wrong?

[kyle]

It is 10 degrees out and my GMC Jimmy will not start. When I turn the key over, all I hear is the sound of a spark. Had this problem two weeks ago and after awhile it fired up. It has been warmer the past few days so I'm trying to figure out if its cold weather. Battery is fairly new, got it in April. Had to change the starter a month ago, so maybe its that? If it was, I doubt I'd hear it sparking up. Any tips or ideas? Hopefully I get this running in an hour, I have class.

 

[bandit_60]

you say your battery is new but how many cold cranking amps it has? it takes a lot of amps to turn the engine on freezing weather. see if someone can give you a jump. if your a member of AAA then call them.

 

[girlygirl]

maybe it needs anti freeze, or maybe its your engine, you should take it to the mechanic.

 

[wild child]

sounds like starter but make sure all wires are clean and tight. bad bendix?

 

[Jim]

Sounds like your ignition module could be bad. If it was the starter, it wouldn't turn at all.

 

[John Hart]

Just a wild guess...but in cold weather, metal parts can seize up when tolerances are held too close. And in the case of a new starter, there are shims that you would use to ensure a little slop between the bendix and flywheel teeth.

A lot of times...to test that theory, you can just loosen the starter mounting bolts just a little and see if your symptoms change. If they do...take it off and add a shim.

But like I said...just a wild guess.