Weird Not Starting Symptoms

[blacksport]

Starting about 5 months ago I go to turn the car on and when I turn the key it just sits there. Nothing dims like the battery is dead or anything. Wait a few seconds or try it again and it would start back up. It would come and go, maybe once every couple weeks.


Now it has gotton bad. And atleast once everytime I drive. It was so bad the other day I couldnt get it to start. So i figured it was the battery (4 years old AC Delco from factory). I jumped it off a truck and it started right up after trying to start it for like 10 minutes and it not turning over at all. Just turn the key and nothing.


So today I bought a new battery at NAPA. I thought the problem would be fixed. I stop the car for a second and when I get back in it does it again with the new battery.


My battery connections are good along with the assecory post connections.


When I turn the key nothing dims, I can play radio as loud as I want. Nothing to do with battery I think. Tomorrow I'll check out the Conecctions on the starter to see if one has wiggled loose.


Any suggestions? I figured I'd post to see if this was a common problem with easy fix or if I just need to check all my connections...

[Farris]

Actually, I had this same problem not too long ago. A bunch of folks kept telling me it was the starter and stuff. Mainly because I could get the power to turn on, but it just wasn't enough to turn over. The real problem was that I had bought a new battery with a bad power cell. Not too common, but it happens. Take it to an auto zone or some place and have them test the battery. Or, if you're just Mr. Money Bags, just go buy a new battery.

If it's not that, then start searching for other problems. If it's making a clicking noise, it might be the starter. Try reaching in and banging it with a metal hammer a couple times next time it gives you that problem. If it starts up after that, then it needs to be replaced.

[nda0602v6]

Yeah have your new battery tested (autozone/walmart test batteries free) and if it check out okay, I'm betting its your starter. The starter motor itself is probably still good, the solenoid on the starter is what usually goes out. Most auto places can test your starter to see if it's bad or not but you have to remove it and bring it in.

[blacksport]

Ya they tested the battery at Napa before I put it in.


Starter selenoid. I'd put my money that might be what it is. Starter has never made any weird noises ever so I dont think its the motor or gears.

Either starter connection or Selenoid. I havent searched for the selenoid yet. Is it drivers side up high like most cars, or hidden somewhere?