2001 Cranks a few times before turning over.

[MaddogCT]

This just started happening.
Engine cranks 3 or 4 times before starting. With each crank the dash and the interior lights dim. And the crank sounds...slow would be the best description.

Does anyone have any idea what part could be coming to its end?


Warning codes 0401 (this comes and goes)
2001 249,000 miles.
Alternator and battery replaced in '11.

(Today it was parked on an incline facing front and it cranked over with a small hesitation.)

Thanks!

[CREWZIN]

Your battery is 3 1/2 years old. That might sound sort of new to you but it could very well be your problem plus, when is the last time you changed plugs and wires? Also, since the battery is out of sight, try taking the air filter off and look and the connections to positive and negative cables. Make sure there's no corrosion building up which would degrade the voltage that the battery is trying to get to the starter.

[MaddogCT]

Plugs and wires '12.
Battery is clear of corrosion, just dirty.
So, its probably my battery.
The symptoms of a starter failing would be different then?

Thank you!

[CREWZIN]

Starters Usually start or they don't. How about a voltage check on your battery. What's it read now before you try and start and what's it go up to when started?

[quicksilverdon]

Many places (Sears, etc) will test battery for free.
Sure sounds like battery.

[MaddogCT]

I don't have a multimeter so I cant check the voltage. Ill take it to Advance tomorrow and have them test it. I hope its the battery and nothing more.

Thank you for the help and point in the right direction.

[MaddogCT]

Took the car to Advance Auto this morning. They tested the battery and then replaced it. The car started on first crank.
Thanks for the responses!!