Won't Start - 1998 Mazda B4000

[futon]

What happened:

* Oil changed at a "quick" lube I've never been to before (I know)
* Next day it drove fine, I stopped for 10 minutes to grab some stuff, and now won't start.
* Single, strong click from the solenoid.
* No grinding, doesn't seem like motor spinning.

Observations:

* Engine is over-filled with oil, and there is a small leak from the filter. My first thought was oil dripping onto starter and fouling it up.
* Battery tested fine during the oil change (12.6v)
* Push start works, and truck runs fine once it's going.

What I've tried so far:

* Boosting with a battery pack.
* Boosting with another car.
* Brand new battery.
* Brand new starter motor.
* Cleaned starter wires.
* Cleaned battery terminals (on old battery) and cleaned the frame ground connection.
* Swapped two of the relays.

Seems similar to this one, but resolution there was just cleaning the battery connections?

Thread 'Won't start after oil change'

Dec 31, 2025

I have a strange issue I am hoping someone else has maybe run into or can help with. I did an oil change on my 2001 3.0 Ranger yesterday. I was having a heck of a time getting the filter off and so I removed the starter motor to give me a little more room. Unfortunately I forgot to remove the battery cable and sparks flew, shorted it out. I took it to Autozone and they tested it, said it was dead, I got a replacement. Installed that, it still won't start. The dash lights come on, I can hear the fuel pump running, but when I turn the key I get a click and that's it - does not turn...

• Rippin' Ranger
• Replies: 12
• Forum: 3.0 Liter Forum

I'm too chicken to try jumping the starter with a screwdriver.

I'm assuming there's an issue with the power cable running to the starter. Signal wire works so solenoid engages (strongly), but motor doesn't engage.

I'm not familiar with electronics, but I suspect my next step is to try testing the wires?

Theories on why this happened the day after an oil change?