2002 UL with 45k miles, today when I go to start the car I turn the key all the way and I get no cranking of the starter. I release the key and try again and it starts right up. Its doing this all day today, what could be causing it?

 

Bad ignition switch? Bad starter solenoid? Poor electrical connections/grounds (from corrosion)? Bad starter relay?

Hard to say without examining the wiring connections in the starter circuit.

 

Could it be as simple as a weak battery in the key not providing the security signal to the car for it to crank?

 

While it may not be the cause in your case, my wife reported a similar ignition problem to me with her Ford a decade ago. I took her car to the mechanic, and he asked: "Does she have a whole bunch of stuff on her keychain ? "

Sure enough, she had everything but the kitchen sink hanging on that keychain. Mechanic said the takes its toll on an ignition switch.

 

I have noticed the battery inside the key fob becoming a little weak, I'll replace it and see if that fixes it.