I have a Saturn SL2 2000 with 115K miles. If I leave the car sitting for a while, it takes a long time to start when I turn the ignition key (about 8-10 seconds). Once the car is running, it runs great. Once its running, if I turn it off, it starts right back up normally, unless I let it sit for a while (at least 30 minutes).
Here's what I know its NOT: spark plugs (relatively new), fuse (all are fine), battery (just replaced, holding charge fine, fully charged), alternator (multimeter reading fine, charging system is a-ok), fuel pump (recently replaced, turns on fine when ignition turned to ON).
I am assuming its the starter. I have not yet been "not able" to start the car, it always starts, just sometimes REALLY drags when I go to crank the engine. Is it the starter? Solenoid? How can I test these? Where is the starter located on my car, and is this something I could remove and have tested, or do I need to have it all done at a shop?
2006-09-06 18:04:48 · 7 answers · asked by Zac G 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
take the starter off, go to autozone, they test em for free
2006-09-06 18:12:11 · answer #1 · answered by jimmy V 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The fuel injectors may be leaking down causing hydro static lock..Put a pressure gauge on the fuel rail and see if the pressure drops as the car sits. The starter is probably on the back of the motor bolted on the trans axel. But if it were the starter or the solenoid it would have problems when it was hot and not cold. Use degreaser on the motor because it could possibly have a ground problem. between the battery the engine and the chassis.
2006-09-07 01:22:31 · answer #2 · answered by firedup 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
By your post, I'm gettin that the starter is turning the engine over when cold, just at a slower speed that when it is warm, since you say it's dragging.
If that's the case, it should be the starter since the battery is new.
Follow the largest red cable down from the battery and inspect it all the way to the starter, which is where it will lead you.
Maybe it has rubbed on something and is partially shorting out when cold (just a possibility). If not, change the starter, disconnecting the negative battery terminal while doing so.
2006-09-07 03:29:19 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would suspect the fuel pump, although it has just been replaced. The pump has an internal check valve and this prevents the fuel from returning to the tank when it is turned off. This explains why it will start immediately after you shut off(fuel hasn't drained back yet) an wont start after sitting for 30 mins. Whoever put the pump in should warranty it..
2006-09-07 01:16:03 · answer #4 · answered by gear head 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if the motor is turning over and not starting for 8 to 10 seconds.then it sounds like your injectors are leaking.when off for a while the fuel pressure leeks down.try turning the key no and off 4 times then start.if time to start is less try fuel injector cleaner.if motor is not turning over the 10 seconds than starter or cable is suspect. auto zone will test starter free. good luck
2006-09-07 01:20:26 · answer #5 · answered by hank s 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i agree with gear head! you fuel pump may be working fine and coming on every time but, it is not holding pressure in the lines and the fuel rail. these systems produce between 40 and 80 psi depending on the car. its ur fuel pump. go get it presure tested.
2006-09-07 01:38:38 · answer #6 · answered by muffdiver24_7_365 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is NOT your starter! Sounds like a fuel system problem, or perhaps a mechanical problem.
2006-09-07 03:10:09 · answer #7 · answered by MrZ 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋