Starter in a 1997 chevy cavalier

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Our Automotive Expert Jeff gives the best answer

Jeff Armer Aug 09, 2023
How can he forget? two different size post (terminals) on the solenoid ,one large & one small . It should be self explanatory. What relay switch ? No relay for the starter on that vehicle. Your best, have a qualified repair shop check it.

Wiring images

https://www.google.com/search?q=1997+Chevrolet+Cavalier+starter+wiring+diagram

How to Replace the Starter on a Chevy Cavalier: 9 Steps

wikiHow Life https://www.wikihow.life > Replace-the-Starter-on-a-C...
9 steps
1.
Tools and Materials You'll Need Socket and Ratchet Wrench 8mm, 13mm, 15mm Wrench w/ 10 inch extension Cardboard Box or Carpet Mat. Fast Orange Soap ...
2.
Open the hood. Vehicles around this model year usually have a hood release lever under the steering column to initiate this step. Once done, lift the hood ...
3.
Disconnect the negative (black) cable from its battery post. Using an 8mm socket wrench or 8mm

..

You don't assume anything

You recall how old things are & then test
the easiest & most likely items

Battery
Cables
Starter Solenoid

The starter relay was added as a recall item and is not shown in Chilton or Haynes manuals. You can find it at the very front of the engine compartment, just to the left of the battery, attached to the radiator crossmember..

The problem is most likely the starter relay, not the ignition switch. Ignition switches had a high nfailure rate in Cavaliers due to starter current. GM issued a recall and added a starter relay to solve this. The relay will fail periodically, resulting in a much easier and cheaper fix than a new ignition switch. If your Cavalier has the relay, you will find it in the very front of the engine compartment, just left of the battery, fastened to the back side of the radiator crossmember. GM Dealers have the relay for about $30.00.

disconnect the s terminal on the starter and connect the battery, if the starter engages then its the starter, if it doesnt check the voltage on the small wire it should be dead unless the key is in the start pos

Sounds like the solenoid is shorting. This is what makes starter whirl.

so did the old one do this before? or just after you replaced the starter. check the wires, their not on right.

call autozone

the problem is the crank shaft position sensor ! I just replaced it on my wifes and it runs like new....

Does the starter crank?