Chrysler Repair: 00 Sebring convert. wont start/no starter action, solenoid switch, chrysler sebring

Question
I have a 2000 chrysler sebring jxi convertible I was having problems earlier this week with the car running hot. Well I found out it was a leak and I need a thermostat housing because the fluid is leaking.. but I went out to start the car this morning and IT WON'T START!!!! the power windows, radio, headlights etc work, but I tried to have it jumped started and nothing... It's won't even turn over and act like it's trying to start...Any idea what could be wrong with this car now? The tow driver said I probably need a battery since I believe this is the original.

Answer
Hi Claudette,
The failure of the starter motor to turn over could be due to the battery, but I would believe there should have been more 'life' exhibited by the use of a jump. Therefore, you might want to check the operation of the that part of the circuit which activates the starter before concluding it is the battery (although if it is original that would be good grounds for evaluating its need for replacement). The first thing would be to look at fuse #8 in the power box under the hood (the long narrow box sandwiched between the engine and transmission controller just behind the radiator). That fuse has a tendency to wear out and blow over time. If so that would kill the starter motor relay from its function and also the current from that relay to the starter solenoid switch (that which produces the loud click when you try the starter and yet the motor doesn't turn). If that fuse is good, then if you shift your attentionto the rear of the same box where at a slightly lower level (perhaps hidden from view) there are 4 relays arranged in a square. The front outboard relay is the starter motor relay. When a helper tries the starter you could feel/listen to see if that relay clicks or not, which it should if the fuse is good. If it doesn't then I would suspect the gear shift park/neutral safety interlock is slightly out of adjustment. So try moving the gear shifter slightly to either side of the detent position and try the key again to see if that gets you the action from the starter motor relay. If not, then I would suspect the ignition switch is not making good contact internally for that circuit. But it would be good to check that out with a voltmeter first.
It is true that the battery can be weak and yet the lights/radio/windows work but not the starter. But at least you should get a loud click if that were the case, particularly with the help of a jump. So check the above and let me know what you learn.
Roland