Losiho

I have a strange problem with my LS that just appeared last week.

On a cold morning, when turning the key to start the engine for the first time, the starter motor won't turn, and a clicking sound can be heard from the engine bay. It may happens once or twice, before the engine fires normally.

I thought the battery was on the way out, so I replaced the battery, but the problem still occurs. It only seems to happen in the morning when you first fire the engine, not any other time during the day.

Could it be a starter motor on the way out ?

st-187

sounds like it might be your starter, if you can dissassemble it, take it to a starter / alternator shop, and have them check the contacts. (internal)

Losiho

Starter solenoid is gone, and needs replacing. Cost is A$800 (or, if you prefer, a whole new starter motor at a cost of A$1,800)

There's also a leaking engine seal, A$320, and leaking steering rack, A$800. This is in addition to the A$2,700 I spent last month on 4 new shocks and rear trailing arm rods. 5 new tyres are next on the list.

Boy am I lucky I really like this car !

vlj73

having similar problem car wont start in the morning at random 2 or three day intervals in the last 2 weeks i have changed starter battery alternator and checked and cleaned all starter and battery connections now its doing it again after working fine for 4 days any ideas?????????????

LScowboyLS

if you are lucky, you will keep checking connections, and find one you missed, otherwise you need a starter/solenoid (or at least service the one you have), the part cost is reasonable, but the labor is a nightmare, $1000 or 10 hours of work by a skilled mechanic - ugh!

MurLS400

Sounds like the same problem i had two years ago, which was fixed by a new alternator.