Our 1999 Cougar runs fine but, randomly, after stopping and shutting down won’t restart. After 30 minutes it starts right up. It doesn’t appear to be the fuel pump. Help, it alwyas happens at the most unopportune times!

You need to tell us a few things about this car before you can get answers that really address the problem. Engine type/size Odometer mileage Specifics on the car’s maintenance record And–most important of all–does “won’t restart” mean that the starter fails to activate when you turn the key, or…

Since it’s intermittent and unlikely to be tested while malfunctioning, I would guess ignition module or crank position sensor.

I would check for spark getting to the plugs when the trouble happens. You could carry a extra plug and plugwire with you to have on hand when the trouble happens so you can check it. Another device that works is one of those noncontact live electrical testers or indicators.

We had this prob with a 1997 buick Lesabre. Does it stall - and then is dead as a doornail, nothing happens when you turn key? We changed out the ignition coils - they tested bad at local Autozone- but when we still had trouble - a low cost mechanic told us that the battery in it was the wrong typ…

A battery being the “wrong type” will not cause a car not to start. You can start a car off just about any 12V battery (things like lantern batterys would not work). What do you think your “wrong battery” had Polish electrons?

“Does it stall - and then is dead as a doornail, nothing happens when you turn key?” No crank? That sounds more like a bad battery than a ‘wrong’ one. Or a loose or corroded cable connection, probably corrected in the process of changing the battery.

I agree with Cougar that it’s something in the “spark” system. To find out, YOU, eegle 1748 have to do some simple checks when it doesn’t start. Are you willing to do that? If you are, you can get a little neon test light that you place on any spark plug wire. Someone cranks the engine as you watch…

If it cranks but does not start, sometimes a temperature sensor is bad and the computer can’t figure out the proper amount of fuel to inject. Just a little off and the engine won’t start. After a half hour, the engine just happens to get to a good starting temperature.

i have a similar problem and i cant seem to diagnose it.

Car won't restart. Have to wait 30 minutes

Maintenance/Repairs

eegle1748 August 5, 2009, 9:44pm 6

Thanks for replying,car/is a 4 cylinder 5 speed manual 99 cougar/90k/well maintained/been in the family about 5 years.Car turns over but will not start(like a bad fuel pump).Usually happens after its been running a while, and then a quick stop somewhere.Just when you think its hopeless(about 30 minutes)it starts up and runs fine…thanks for your time…Bill

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Car won't restart. Have to wait 30 minutes

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