1. What's happening?
You're saying the car's electrical components (lights, radio, etc.) work fine, but as soon as you turn the key (or press the start button), everything goes dead.
2. The Likely Culprit: A Short Circuit
* The battery is likely NOT the problem. A new battery is very unlikely to cause a complete electrical shutdown.
* The culprit is almost certainly a short circuit. A short circuit is a situation where electricity takes a path of least resistance, often bypassing the intended circuit and overloading the electrical system.
3. Where the Short Might Be:
* Starter Motor: The starter is the most likely culprit. When the key is turned, a huge amount of current flows through the starter to turn the engine. A short in the starter motor itself, or in the wiring leading to it, can cause a sudden overload and shut down the entire system.
* Ignition Switch: A problem with the ignition switch itself can cause a short circuit.
* Wiring: Any frayed, corroded, or improperly connected wiring in the engine compartment can cause a short.
* Other Electrical Components: While less likely, a short circuit in other components (like the alternator or sensors) could also trigger this problem.
4. What to Do:
1. Safety First: Don't mess with electrical systems unless you are comfortable with the risks. You could be dealing with very high voltage and it's important to disconnect the battery before working on anything.
2. Get Professional Help: Unless you have a lot of experience working on cars, you should take it to a mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to quickly diagnose and fix a short circuit.
Important Note: Don't just keep replacing parts randomly. A proper diagnosis is needed to find the source of the short circuit.
