What is the starter problem on a 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500?
The starter problem on a 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 is most often caused by a failing starter motor or solenoid, or by a weak battery and corroded connections. In practice, you may hear a single click, no crank, or slow, labored cranking, and the issue can be intermittent or persistent.
What the starting system does and why failures happen
The Silverado’s starting system is a 12-volt circuit that engages a starter motor to turn the engine over. Failures can arise from mechanical wear in the starter, electrical problems in the battery or wiring, or faults in control components such as relays or the neutral safety switch. Understanding the basics helps narrow down whether the problem is battery-related, starter-related, or in the wiring/controls.
Common symptoms
These signs can indicate a starter or starting-circuit problem. If you notice one or more of them, it’s worth checking the battery, wiring, and starter components before driving the vehicle again.
- No crank when turning the key; the engine does not rotate at all.
- A single loud click or a series of rapid clicks from the vicinity of the starter when attempting to start.
- The engine cranks slowly or intermittently refuses to start, then starts on a subsequent try.
- The starter spins without engaging the engine (grinding or freewheeling, indicating gear engagement issue).
- Dim or flickering lights when you try to start, suggesting a weak battery or excessive current draw.
- Grinding noises or burning smells during starting, which can indicate worn gears or wiring insulation issues.
If you observe these symptoms, begin with the battery and connections, then move to the starter itself if the simple fixes don’t resolve the issue.
Likely causes
The most common reasons a 2017 Silverado 1500 won’t start or cranks poorly fall into a few broad categories: battery health, electrical connections, the starter itself, and control-related issues.
- Weak or dead battery, or battery not delivering enough current during cranking.
- Faulty starter motor or solenoid, due to worn brushes, burnt windings, or internal failure.
- Wiring issues or poor connections in the starter circuit, including harness damage or corroded connectors.
- Neutral safety switch or transmission-range sensor problems; the vehicle may not engage the starter unless in Park/Neutral.
Electrical faults, corrosion, and wear over time are the most common culprits. In cold weather or after short trips, a battery may appear healthy but deliver insufficient current during crank, pointing to battery or charging-system concerns.
How to diagnose and address the problem
A systematic check can confirm the cause and guide the repair. Start with the simplest, most common issues and progress to component testing as needed.
- Ensure safety: park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and disconnect jewelry or loose metal objects. If you’re not comfortable, skip to professional help.
- Test the battery: measure resting voltage with a multimeter. A healthy, fully charged 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. If the voltage is low, charge the battery and re-test. If it cannot hold a charge, replace it.
- Inspect battery connections: clean any corrosion, tighten clamps, and ensure a solid ground connection to the chassis and engine block. Re-test starting function.
- Check for proper ground path: inspect the negative battery cable and ground straps for corrosion or looseness.
- Try a jump start: if the vehicle starts with a jump from another vehicle or a jump pack, the issue may be the battery or the alternator. Have the charging system tested to confirm.
- Test fuses and relays: locate the starting circuit fuse and the starter relay in the fuse/relay box. Replace any blown fuses and swap a known-good relay to see if starting improves.
- Inspect ignition switch operation: turn the key and observe whether a voltage signal reaches the starter feed. If the switch fails to deliver power, it may need replacement.
- Check the neutral safety switch: with an automatic transmission, attempt to start in Park and then in Neutral. If the vehicle starts only in one gear, the switch or its wiring may be faulty.
- Assess the starter itself: if you hear a strong click but no spin, the solenoid or motor may be intermittent. A bench test by a professional can determine if the starter needs replacement.
- Consider professional testing: a shop can perform a controlled load test, amperage draw test on the starter, and charging-system diagnostics to confirm root cause and provide a precise repair plan.
If the starter is confirmed as the fault, replacement is usually straightforward but may require engine access depending on the Silverado’s configuration. Expect a cost that covers parts and labor; prices vary by region, vehicle configuration, and whether a DIY approach is used.
When to seek professional help
If basic checks don’t resolve the issue, or if you’re uncomfortable working around the battery and electrical system, contact a certified mechanic or Chevy service center. Electrical work can involve risks, and an expert can confirm whether the problem lies with the starter, the charging system, or a control module ensuring proper diagnosis and a proper repair plan.
Summary
On the 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500, starter problems most often stem from a worn starter motor or solenoid or from electrical issues such as a weak battery or corroded connections. Start with a battery health check and clean/secure battery terminals, then move to testing relays, fuses, and wiring. If the engine still won’t crank, a professional diagnostic can verify whether the remedy is a starter replacement, a charging-system fix, or a control-switch replacement. Early attention can prevent stranded situations and ensure reliable starting in all conditions.
Why does my 2017 Silverado just click when I try to start?
A 2017 Chevy Silverado that clicks when starting is most likely experiencing a problem with a weak battery or poor battery connections, but could also have a faulty starter motor. To diagnose the issue, start by checking the battery voltage and cleaning the terminals, then inspect the starter and its connections for any loose or corroded wires. If the battery and its connections are good, the starter motor itself is the next most likely component to be the culprit.
Possible causes and solutions
This video explains how to diagnose a clicking car starter: 59sJonny DIYYouTube · Nov 13, 2021
1. Weak or dead battery
- Symptoms: A rapid clicking sound often indicates the battery doesn't have enough power to turn the starter.
- Solution:
- Check voltage: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage; it should be around 12.512.512.5 volts.
- Jump-start: Attempt to jump-start the truck. If it starts, the battery is likely the issue, or the alternator isn't charging it properly.
- Test at auto parts store: Take the battery to an auto parts store for a free test.
2. Corroded or loose battery connections
- Symptoms: A single click or a series of clicks can result from poor electrical contact at the battery terminals.
- Solution:
- Inspect connections: Visually inspect the battery terminals and cables for corrosion, damage, or looseness.
- Clean and tighten: Clean off any corrosion and ensure all connections are tight and secure.
- Check grounds: Also, inspect the main ground cable connection, which can cause a similar clicking issue if loose or corroded.
3. Faulty starter motor or solenoid
- Symptoms: A single loud click that doesn't turn into cranking can indicate a bad starter or solenoid.
- Solution:
- Test the starter: With the key on the "start" position, check if the starter receives battery voltage at the solenoid wires. If it does, the starter is likely bad.
- Replace starter: If voltage is confirmed at the starter but it still won't crank, the starter motor needs to be replaced.
This video demonstrates troubleshooting starter issues on a 2020 Chevy Silverado: 2:30ShowMeMechanicsYouTube · Sep 21, 2022
How do I know if my Silverado starter is bad?
You might have difficulty turning the key, experience intermittent starting problems, or find that there is no response when you attempt to start the vehicle.
Is there a recall on 2017 Silverado electrical issues?
2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Recall Electronic-Brake Control Module. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782.
How much does it cost to replace a starter on a 2017 Silverado?
The total cost to replace a 2017 Silverado starter typically ranges from $500 to over $1,100 for professional service, depending on the parts and labor rates. For a DIY replacement, the cost is lower, primarily for the part itself, which can range from under $100 to over $350. Labor time is estimated at 1.2 to 1.9 hours, depending on whether the truck is two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
Professional replacement
- Total cost: Expect to pay between $500 and $1,100+ for a professional replacement.
- Parts cost: A new starter can cost from $240 to over $413 for premium or OEM parts, while aftermarket options may be less.
- Labor cost: Labor typically ranges from $150 to over $1,100 depending on the complexity and labor rates.
- Labor time: Estimated at 1.2 to 1.9 hours, depending on whether it's 2WD or 4WD.
DIY replacement
- Cost: You will save on labor costs, with the total cost being just for the replacement part, which can range from under $100 to over $350.
- Difficulty: This is a reasonable project for those with the right tools and experience, but it can be complicated for beginners, as the starter can be hard to access on some vehicles.
This video shows the process of replacing a starter motor on a Chevrolet Silverado: 39sThe Brothers WorkshopYouTube · Nov 2, 2023
