[VeeForTee]

Vehicle 1998 Volvo V40 T4.

Occasionally, when I turned the key, I only get a single click and no turn over. It appeared to be a parasitic battery drain. I hooked up the test light in series with the negative post and cable. Pulled each fuse on at a time, and the light never went out. Hhhmmm... Next day, no problem.

I replaced the battery since it was old. Seemed worth the time/effort. I went for several weeks without a problem.

Yesterday, same thing. Only a click. I hooked it up via jump cables to the "good car" and initially, it wouldn't turn over... just a click. After a few attempts and about 20 minutes on the cables, it finally started... very strongly. It acts as if a switch has been turned off and on.

So... is it possible for there to be a problem inside the starter solenoid that is causing it to drain the battery... yet still work whenever it feels like it? Do solenoids fail intermittently?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

See if these suggestions help:

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

[VeeForTee]

#1 might be the problem.

I have replaced the negative cable and ensured a clean, tight connection.

I now need to work from the positive terminal to the starter, etc. and do the same.

I can hear the relay clicking inside the underhood fusebox... so things seem okay there. And... given the test I performed with the test light, then it seems it has to be something without a fuse... like the starter solenoid.


I just wondered if the solenoid itself could fail one moment and work the next?

[VeeForTee]

Actually... I've spent an hour or so looking over the repair manual.

What do you think about the idea that the ignition coil might be failing intermittently? I was driving down the street one day and the car shut off, but it restarted immediately. Maybe that was a signal?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

If the starter motor doesn't crank consistently, then the problem is likely with the battery, starter motor, or solenoid. If the starter motor cranks, but the engine doesn't start, then I would have the Ignition Control Module and coil checked out at AutoZone for free. I would also have the ICM and coil tested/replaced if the car died on you, while you were driving.