Why is my Dodge Magnum not turning over?

Most often, the issue is in the starting system—typically a dead battery or a faulty starter.

In a Dodge Magnum not turning over, the engine does not crank when you attempt to start, and the cause can range from battery and cables to the starter, ignition switch, or immobilizer. This article outlines the common culprits and practical steps to diagnose the problem.

Common causes

Understanding the most frequent culprits helps you prioritize checks. The following sections break down the usual suspects and what to look for.

Battery and electrical system

• Dead or weak battery


• Corroded, loose, or damaged battery terminals and cables


• Bad alternator causing the battery to drain during operation

Battery and wiring issues are the easiest to spot and fix and often account for a no-crank condition.

Starting system and immobilizer

• Faulty starter motor or solenoid


• Bad ignition switch or starter relay


• Security/immobilizer system preventing key recognition


• Blown starter fuse or fusible link

A clicking sound or no sound when turning the key often points to the starter or immobilizer-related problems.

Engine and mechanical issues

• Seized engine or internal mechanical binding


• Neutral safety switch (automatic) or clutch start switch (manual) failing

These issues are less common but can prevent cranking if the engine cannot rotate or the starting sequence is blocked.

How to diagnose safely

To identify the root cause, use a methodical, safety-minded approach that starts with power checks and simple observations.

1. Ensure the vehicle is in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual) with the parking brake engaged and the ignition off.


2. Test battery voltage with a multimeter; a healthy, fully charged 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts when the engine is off. If it's below about 12.0 volts, recharge or replace the battery.


3. Inspect battery terminals for corrosion, looseness, or damage and clean or tighten as needed.


4. Attempt a jump-start with a known-good battery or jumper cables to see if the car cranks with external power.


5. Listen for a click, a grind, or no sound at all when pressing the start button or turning the key; a single click often signals a starter/solenoid or grounding issue, while no sound can indicate battery, ignition, or immobilizer problems.


6. Check relevant fuses and the starter relay in the fuse/relay box; replace any blown fuses or a faulty relay.


7. Look for dashboard warnings (immobilizer/key light, security indicators, or check engine light) that could point to immobilizer or electronic faults.


8. If the vehicle still won't crank, consider professional testing for current draw on the starter or potential immobilizer programming issues.

These steps help distinguish between battery-related failures, starter/relay problems, and immobilizer or wiring faults, guiding you toward the appropriate repair.

What to do next

Based on what you find, pursue the appropriate fix. This might mean charging or replacing the battery, repairing or replacing the starter, or addressing wiring and grounding. If an immobilizer issue is suspected, consult the owner's manual or a professional for key programming and anti-theft reconciliation.

Summary

A Dodge Magnum that won’t turn over is most often tied to the starting system—typically a dead battery or a faulty starter—along with potential wiring or immobilizer issues. A structured diagnostic approach that starts with power checks and terminal inspections can quickly pinpoint the cause and guide the right repair. When in doubt, especially with immobilizer or engine/mechanical concerns, seek a qualified technician to avoid misdiagnosis or damage.

What are common problems with the Dodge Magnum?

Common problems with the Dodge Magnum include issues with the transmission, such as slipping or shifting problems due to worn components or fluid leaks from the transmission electrical connector. Other frequent complaints involve electrical problems, like the dashboard or gauges failing intermittently, and engine issues, including a check engine light from carbon buildup or a faulty thermostat. Suspension components and brake-related problems, such as a vibrating pedal, are also common.
 
You can watch this video to learn about common issues and reliability of the 5.9 Magnum engine: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 5, 2024
Powertrain

• Transmission problems: Look for slipping, erratic shifting, or loss of power. A worn-out transmission or issues with the transmission electrical connector leaking fluid can cause these symptoms. 
• Engine issues: A check engine light can be triggered by carbon buildup on valves or a failed thermostat. 
• Engine stalling: Some models may experience engine stalling. 

Electrical

• Intermittent electrical failures: The dashboard lights and gauges may drop to zero while driving. 
• Software issues: Some electrical problems can be resolved by software updates for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM). 
• Ignition issues: Some models had a recall for ignition problems where the key could get stuck or move on its own. 

Chassis and suspension

• Suspension clunking: You may hear a clunking sound from the suspension. Worn-out bushings and struts are a common cause. 
• Brake issues: A vibrating brake pedal is a known problem. 
• Power window failure: The window regulator and motor can fail due to cable failure. 
• Steering noise: A squeak when turning can be fixed by lubricating or replacing the lower steering shaft seal. 

Other

• Sunroof leaks: Some models have a sunroof that doesn't close flush, leading to wind noise and leaks. 
• Musty A/C odor: A musty smell from the A/C system can be addressed with a cleaner. 
• Rust: Some models are prone to rust on the body panels. 

This video discusses the history of the Magnum and some of its flaws: 1mMarspeedYouTube · Jul 17, 2019

Why won't my Dodge Magnum turn over?

The most common reasons a Dodge Magnum won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions.

What does it mean when your car has power but won't crank?

A car with power but no start is likely caused by a faulty starter motor, a bad ignition switch, or a problem with the car's electrical connections. Other common culprits include a blown fuse or relay, a loose or corroded battery cable, a problem with the fuel pump, or a malfunctioning shift safety switch. 
Electrical and connection issues

• Faulty starter motor: If you hear a single click when you turn the key but the engine doesn't crank, a bad starter is a likely cause. 
• Bad ignition switch: This switch sends power to the starter. If it's faulty, accessories might work, but the engine won't crank. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Even with a charged battery, corrosion or loose connections can prevent the flow of power needed to start the engine. 
• Blown fuse or faulty relay: A blown fuse or bad relay in the starter circuit can prevent power from reaching the starter. 
• Key fob battery (for push-button start): A dead or weak key fob battery can prevent a modern car from recognizing the key and starting. 

This video explains how to check for common causes like a faulty starter or a bad key fob battery: 55sFixITYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
Mechanical and safety issues

• Faulty neutral safety switch: In an automatic car, this switch prevents starting unless the gear selector is in Park or Neutral. Wiggling the shifter while trying to start can sometimes temporarily fix this. 
• Fuel system problems: If the engine cranks but won't "catch," a problem with the fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter could be the issue. 
• Security system lockout: The car's anti-theft system can malfunction and prevent it from starting. 
• Bad ignition coil or spark plugs: These are necessary for the engine to ignite. If they are faulty, the engine will crank but not start. 

This video demonstrates how to check the neutral safety switch and other potential issues: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Jan 24, 2024
Troubleshooting steps

• Check battery connections: Wiggle the battery terminals to ensure they are tight and clean off any white, powdery corrosion. 
• Try a jump-start: A jump-start can help determine if the battery has enough power to crank the engine, even if it shows a good voltage reading. 
• Check fuses and relays: Locate the fuse box and visually inspect the fuses for the starter and ignition. You can also swap a suspect relay with a known-good one, like the horn relay, to test it. 
• Check the gear selector: For automatic transmissions, try shifting to Neutral or jiggling the gear shifter while in Park to see if the safety switch is the culprit. 
• Replace the key fob battery: If you have a push-button start, try replacing the battery in your key fob. 

Can a blown fuse cause a crank no start?

A fuse can cause cranking without starting if it powers critical systems like the fuel pump or ignition coil. Check the fuse box for blown fuses related to these circuits. Inspect the fuel pump relay and ignition relay as well. If fuses and relays are intact, test the fuel pump operation and spark presence.