my car won't start straight after running?

Question

I can't start my car, usually after driving it (even for a short time). I have to wait a couple of hours to start it again. When I turn the key there is no sound, nothing. Battery seems to be ok - the lights work fine. As I said there is no sound when I turn the key, nothing happens. After a couple of hours it starts again with no problems.

Answer 1

The problem sounds electrical in nature. My guess is heat soak. When the starter heats up it no longer works, then when it cools down it works again. Or it is the solenoid.

Answer 2

Most likely this is your main relay failing. If you are driving a honda it is located right under the drivers side dash. You need to give more information. Year make model etc. Since you are getting no power up at all I would assume it is a relay and not your starter.

Answer 3

Ignition switch and light circuits are indipendant of each other. I suspect your problem between the ignition switch and neutral safety switch. Try by passing the neutral switch with a jumper wire when it wont start. If that gets it cranking, you have found the trouble.
Do not leave the test wire in, you could kill someone.

Answer 4

if it is a newer car and has an imobiliser fitted this maybe the problem, my brother had his car back at the dealership severel times before they picked up on the problem.
also if an older car check the starter motor

Answer 5

it does sound like a relay. Had a main relay go out in a CRX, it did this until it was replaced, then ran fine.

Answer 6

You car has been running without lube oil or low oil pressure.

that is creating extra heat to the entire vehicle.affecting electrical components
such as relays, solenoids,resistance in wiring.

it won't hurt to check the ground cable,engine to chassis.

Answer 7

You might want to have someone look at the starter wires.