2G Intermittent no start

[kwf730]

Before I go throwing a bunch of money at my DSM (more so than a DSM life requires) I was hoping to get some feeback/direction.

Car just won't start the first time sometimes. I turn the key and I hear the relay click but nothing. If I cycle the key enough times it finally starts, so I'm leaning towards starter, but I know it could also maybe something else just not sending the signal. Guys got any ideas?

More Info: Doesn't matter if the car is hot or cold start

 

[ThunderChild]

Check all high current connections, i.e.- battery terminals, cables, grounds etc.
Since the relay is clicking, you're getting key signal good, but either there is resistance in the high current feed to the starter motor, or they motor itself is worn and needs replaced.

Start with the simple stuff like cleaning cables and progress from there. Report back when you can!

 

[Mech Addict]

Could be starter solenoid wearing out. When it doesn’t start, only one click, or several rapid ones? When it cranks, does it crank strongly, or barely turn?
In response to your initial question, this seems like a problem that is isolated simply in the starting system, and not spread into multiple systems. These are often rather straightforward to troubleshoot (as ThunderChild describes) and not all that costly to repair, in my experience. I just looked on Rock Auto, and a new starter is like a hundred bucks, so that’s pretty cheap, if it comes down to it.

 

[kwf730]

Could be starter solenoid wearing out. When it doesn’t start, only one click, or several rapid ones? When it cranks, does it crank strongly, or barely turn?
In response to your initial question, this seems like a problem that is isolated simply in the starting system, and not spread into multiple systems. These are often rather straightforward to troubleshoot (as ThunderChild describes) and not all that costly to repair, in my experience. I just looked on Rock Auto, and a new starter is like a hundred bucks, so that’s pretty cheap, if it comes down to it.

It is just a single click. When it does crank and turn over it cranks strong. Sounds like the starter sometimes stays engaged a few seconds too long. This is why I'm leaning towards starter but I don't want to just condemn it and have the issue continue.

 

[Mech Addict]

Yes, I’m still thinking solenoid, from that description. Not that it couldn’t be corrosion, or loose cable, but a connection problem usually has poor cranking. If the solenoid isn’t engaging sometimes, and isn’t disengaging sometimes, it would act like yours. If this went on for a long time, it might wear the ring gear on the flywheel/ flexplate (man/auto). That would be a lot more involved to replace. I’m not sure about an eclipse, but in many cars you can peek at a bit of the ring when the starter is out. By turning the crank by hand, you can look at the whole gear. Probably not necessary in your case, but some people like to spend time that way. Also, RockAuto shows just the solenoid for $25-50, but it might not be the solenoid itself, but the little linkage it has to push the starter gear into mesh with the ring gear. I also suggest you wait to see if anyone else thinks I’ve been inhaling too much carb cleaner today, and has a different idea.

 

[ThunderChild]

@Mech Addict has some good points.

Typically I don't recommend just a solenoid replacement due to likely hood that the starter motor itself usually won't be too far behind the solenoid in failure. On a DSM though, with the few variations in starters, it might be worth it to swap the solenoid.

I'd still start with the simple things, and if they don't yield results, go for the solenoid, then the starter if needed.

 

[kwf730]

Thanks for the info guys. I wont be able to tear into it until this weekend. I'll give you updates

 

[AWD-Tony]

Another item to check.

If it's manual, check the clutch switch. Pull it out and check for continuity when it's pressed in. If it's auto, check if you hear a click when you press the brake pedal. If you don't hear anything, it's the park neutral safety switch.

 

[boostdawd]

Check your key ignition as well. Not sure on dsms but on the evos there is a known issue of a module becoming lose over time causing intermittent no cranks.

 

[kwf730]

I was looking around and such, and tightened up the ground. This seems to have resolved the issue. I'll let you guys know if it returns

 

[Mech Addict]

Looks like ThunderChild had this one pegged. Glad you got it back on the road.

 

[Mech Addict]

Which ground, btw?