starting problem, please help

[Joeyxx07]

okay, so my car wont start half the time now. when it does start i have to hold it in the start position for about 10-15 seconds. now i dont know where to start, i do have a small oil leak in my first spark plug though....could this have anything to do with it? where do i start checking this?? please help me out!!! thnks

 

[pooker]

If it is cold outside when you notice those harder starts it could just be low compression but if the the engine itself is not turning over and just ticking you might wanna try replacing the starter.

 

[markGSX]

when you say you have to "hold it in the start position for 10-15 seconds"... is it cranking over?

 

[Joeyxx07]

no it doesnt crank over at all, after holding it there silent for 10 seconds it will crank over

 

[eclipsh]

Pull your starter, take it to a parts store and get it tested. Sounds like the problem.

It is very easy to reach. Just pull your battery out and it is right under the intake manifold on the passenger's side. There are just two 14mm bolts holding it in. One mid-length extension and a ratchet should have it out in about 10-15 minutes.

 

[CTP_MADDOG]

my guess would also be a faulty starter. oil in your spark plug hole will most likely not cause any problems as your plug wire shields the magnecore wire with the rubber boot preventing the oil from contaminating the electrical connection. if the oil in the hole is accessive, and it boes penetrate the boot, it willc cause your car to misfire. although it shouldnt prevent it from starting. delayed response to the starter after turnign the key is most definately either the starter, or a bad relay.