Intermittent starting issues

Tiny
MCUTLER7603
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 FORD FOCUS
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 165,000 MILES
Sometimes when I go to start my car it clicks and then starts, this morning it would not start and then about ten minutes later it started just fine.
Friday, February 9th, 2018 AT 10:08 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
HARRY P
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,292 POSTS
The solenoid switch on the starter is failing. If you can see the terminals on the starter solenoid, you can try linking them together using a screwdriver or something when it does this. If the engine turns, then you have verified that the starter needs replacing.

Here is a guide that fully lays out how starters work and the common issues: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-starter-and-solenoid-works

Your problem is specifically mentioned in there. You can also remove the starter and take it to AutoZone or just about any other auto parts store and have it tested for free. They should be able to confirm that diagnosis if they do their test correctly.
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Friday, February 9th, 2018 AT 7:02 PM

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