When I turn the ignition key, nothing happens as if it is totally dead. I try it again and it starts with no problem. I had the starter replaced as the mechanic said it was the starter solenoid. He said it had a dead spot and that was why it would start after a couple of tries. However, it did it again and this time it took 3 tries to get it to start. Any thought on this?
Since you’ve already replaced the starter assembly, and when it acts up it does absolutely nothing but when it starts is does so fine (?), I’d consider the key cylinder to be suspect.
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You may be onto something here. If I recall correctly, the first time this happened I believe I moved the position of the steering wheel and then turned the key and it started. Thanks for your reply.
I’d suspect your park/neutral safety switch. Try jiggling the shift lever and turn the keys again. If you are in a no start condition, hold the key in start and then jiggle the shifter. If jiggling the shifter causes it to engage the starter, then the safety switch is the problem. Also try starting in neutral instead of park and see if that makes a difference.
Edit: [quote=“Romanov, post:3, topic:112835, full:true”]
You may be onto something here. If I recall correctly, the first time this happened I believe I moved the position of the steering wheel and then turned the key and it started. Thanks for your reply.
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Moving the steering wheel also moves the shift lever.
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Both good responses here. I second both the ignition switch and the neutral safety switch as possible issues.
There are voltage tests your shop can do that will determine the cause if you want to get off the parts replacement treadmill. Ignition switch and neutral start safety switch are both good ideas. Could be a battery, charging system, or wiring harness problem too. As well, the replacement starter could be faulty.