So here's the problem and maybe somebody can tell me if its the starter itself, a relay, or something I'm missing.

When I start my car usually the first couple turns of the key result in just a simple click, the motor doesn't spin the engine doesn't turn over just a click coming from the engine compartment. To start the car I can either repeatedly turn the key or I can hold the key to start and pump the clutch. Sometimes it starts on the first try sometimes it takes 15. The vast majority of the time when it does finally decide to start there is no stutter and it just starts right up. Sometimes the motor does sound a bit weak but I'm not sure if that's the motor or maybe the battery or some bad connection somewhere. The radio, and all electronics work fine, the lights don't ever dim so I assume the battery is working fine.

txgreasemonkey

Reading this should help:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post235560

Always start by fully charging the battery and cleaning the cable connections!

bikerguy

I would assume the battery and or connections. Now, this is just a common fail item. I do know how to trouble shoot, but lets go with the easy stuff first.. The radio draws maybe 3-5 amps the starter can be a hundred amps or more for a short time. Jump the car with a good set of cables and see if that cures it. Appling another power source will eliminate the battery, check and clean the connectors and wires.. others will chime in with futher isolation methods to futher isolate. Start at the battery and ground first.

Oops while I was typing this monkey came up with the link! I read it its Great!

Thanks monkey!

brandy681

Ok I had the exact problem and for me it was the battery connectors that needed replacing. It could also be that the wire to the starter is loose and needs to be tightening.. I think if it was a bad starter than you would not be able to crank it at all. No this definitely does not seem battery related but could be connectors though. Good Luck!

daveincave

I have the same issue with my sisters car. To know if the starter is ok remove the black and white wire from the top of the starter. this one comes from the relay/fuse box. If the car cranks over ok then the starter and solenoid work properly. This is where I am lost. I don't know if these cars have a relay or not. I need to find where the black /white wire goes to. I hate cutting wire harnesses.. pain to retape....