my car takes about 2.5 seconds to get started when the key is turned, feels like a slight hesitation. the alternator gives out 14 volts so its good, but the battery is low on my $5 radio shack car battery tester. but i dont know if the batt is bad, or its because the car hasnt been driven much since the tie rods and ball joints are bad and im waiting to get them replaced.

so could it be because the batt is low and not enough juice at the start? could it be my starter?

doesnt autozone test the starter for free?

 

define "hesitates"
you mean you turn the key to crank and then a pause before it starts cranking?
Or , you start the engine and it stumbles a little bit?
Sure the parts store will test the starter for free if you pull it out for them

 

cap and rotor? plugs? tune up?