intermittent start problem
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
intermittent start problem
I have starting problem - when I turn the key, A/C, radio everything is working. but it doesn't start the engine.
No sparkling sound at all, it's just silent. i turn the key to off and then try to start it again - usually it will start. on a few occasions i've had to turn the key 2 or 3 times before it will start. this is an intermittent problem - not every time i start the car. my husband put it in neutral one day when it would start and it started.
any suggestions?
No sparkling sound at all, it's just silent. i turn the key to off and then try to start it again - usually it will start. on a few occasions i've had to turn the key 2 or 3 times before it will start. this is an intermittent problem - not every time i start the car. my husband put it in neutral one day when it would start and it started.
any suggestions?
Driver
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 122
Likes: 0
From: Illinois
I had a similar problem on an old GM car. You didn't say how old your car is but my "guess" would be a worn or defective ignition switch. Did you try one of your other keys to see if it works more reliably in the ignition? Good luck!!
Bruce
Bruce
Driver
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 148
Likes: 1
From: California
hello, if battery is ok and there is nosound or a click click when key is turn to start, and if this happens intermittently like you say, probably starter is going kaput, but get it check before you plunge on the starter issue,
You can stop by a local Kragen and ask the sales guy to run a check on your battery. The dealer would perform this service for $79. 
As well, when they check the battery, they can check the alternator to see that it is charging. If they give those systems a 
that leaves the starter, a relay or a wiring issue.
The relay is easy to check by simply pulling it and applying voltage to the specified terminals to check for actuation. If that works, it goes right to te starter unfortunately. Shop around, for this service I had mine done at Longo Lexus for sub $800. The otehr local dealers were $1,100 give take a bit.
Mine was sometimes silent, it may click or it would start up no problem. Mine went at 87K miles. My service writer told me it can happen as low as 60K miles and others go 200K+ miles. YMMV.
As well, when they check the battery, they can check the alternator to see that it is charging. If they give those systems a that leaves the starter, a relay or a wiring issue.The relay is easy to check by simply pulling it and applying voltage to the specified terminals to check for actuation. If that works, it goes right to te starter unfortunately. Shop around, for this service I had mine done at Longo Lexus for sub $800. The otehr local dealers were $1,100 give take a bit.
Mine was sometimes silent, it may click or it would start up no problem. Mine went at 87K miles. My service writer told me it can happen as low as 60K miles and others go 200K+ miles. YMMV.
Last edited by RA40; Dec 9, 2004 at 06:17 PM.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
