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PGerard · Aug 23, 2010, 06:44 AM

Good morning. I have a 2004 Elantra which has been a fairly good car for me, but for the last 6 months or so I've had an intermittent starting issue which seems to be getting progressively worse. Basically I sit there turning the key and nothing happens at all and then eventually it catches and starts. At first I suspected the starter, naturally. I went to a rebuilder and they rebuilt it for me on the spot and replaced the solonoid too. The same thing is still happening. Luckily it's a 5-Speed so I can compression start it. So I've ruled out the starter and I've ruled out the ignition switch since it will compression start. The only thing my simple mind can see being the problem now is my Starter Inhibitor (Make is "Pursuit") or the computer. Has anyone run into this and found the issue? I don't want to bring it in to the dealer only to pay for their time and end up not getting it fixed.

Thanks

TxGreaseMonkey · Aug 23, 2010, 06:55 AM

Have you removed and fully charged, or replaced, the battery? This link should help:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post235560

PGerard · Aug 23, 2010, 07:19 AM

Thanks Tx. The battery was changed a couple of years ago. It's an Interstate. I doubt low charge is the issue since it always starts real easy when it does turn over. It's getting it to turn over that seems to be the problem. Is there some sort of starter "relay" that could be flaky?

TxGreaseMonkey · Aug 23, 2010, 07:29 AM

The only relay is the starter solenoid on the starter motor. Personally, I'd have the battery tested, especially since most auto parts stores will do it for free. If the battery terminal and cable connections are clean and tight, my bet is there's a problem with the battery. You need to establish a "known good baseline." This is part of that process. It's the first step in solving any automotive electrical problem.

The cause may be a bad alternator and the effects may be a discharged battery and a difficult to start engine. This link may help:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...ml#post1973613

We know the starter motor and solenoid are likely fine--we don't know the condition of the battery and alternator.

PGerard · Aug 23, 2010, 08:11 AM

OK Thanks... I'll run through that on the weekend and see what I can come up with. Thanks Again.

PGerard · Nov 9, 2010, 02:40 PM

OK this is resolved. I tested the voltage at the starter relay and found that the side coming from the ignition was fluctuating (when turned as if cranking). I have an aftermarket starter inhibitor which I have completely removed and haven't seen the problem since. I then inspected that component and found a cold solder within.

Problem solved... now how do I close this question?