Lately I've been having a problem starting the car - it will just stop cranking before the engine starts. I'll have the key held in the start position, but nothing will be happening. This might happen two or three times, but eventually, it will crank fine and fire right up. I'm not sure if this would be a battery issue, since it seems to get better during subsequent starting attempts. Thanks in advance.

 

Does it slow down and stop like a weak battery, or just stop cold iin the middle of cranking?

Does it make a sound like the starter motor is still spinning?

 

Nope, it just stops completely, no sounds whatsoever.

 

Sounds like a bad solenoid.

I would think the ignition switch is still good.

 

Hey Phoenix, thanks for your help.

Any idea how involved replacing the solenoid is? About how much should I be expecting to shell out?

 

They're built into the starters. (so you replace the starter)

If you run to an autoparts store they go about $75 or so.