Intermittent no crank?

2004 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
150,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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CHRISSHERMAN
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(Okay, auto parts store electrical system test okay, has a new agm battery.)
Turn the key on, everything works, all lights are on the dash, gauges sweep. Turn the key to start, doesn't crank. The starter does not click. With a voltmeter battery is at 12.8-13.2 volts. I have tried neutral, run through gears, no change.
Now, it will start if I get another vehicle and jump it. Turns over and starts right away. Then throughout the day Turn it off, it will start. But you never know when it's going to not start again. Come out from the store, and it won't start. I've had it start in the mornings also. Seems like it doesn't matter how long it sits between it starting and not starting. I also tried unhooking the battery when I turned the car off. Sometimes it will start, sometimes it won't. Unhooking the battery does not guarantee it will start.
Jan 8, 2023 at 3:05 AM
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CHRISSHERMAN
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This is a video trying to start the car.
ChrisSherman
Jan 8, 2023 at 3:16 AM
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STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,256 POSTS
This looks like a classic bad starter motor which responds to more amperage which is why it works when another battery jump is added. to be sure you can use a test light on the starter trigger wire and if it lights up when the key is turned to the start position you know for sure the starter is no good, this guide can help, and I have added how to change the starter motor out in the images below.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair


Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Jan 9, 2023 at 2:52 AM
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CHRISSHERMAN
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I am here with an update. I bought a new starter and installed it. Car started right up and has started every time since. Amazing.
Thank you, Ken, and thank you to 2CarPros.com.
Chris
Jan 14, 2023 at 11:13 AM
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STRAILER
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Good to hear, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.

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Jan 15, 2023 at 3:57 AM
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