2000 Saab 9-3 automatic doesn't start at random times? lights/radio still go on. any ideas?

Question

As odd at it is it also only happens around certain times? Most likely because of thats when I drive it most, always starts early morning and late at night but trouble times are mainly around 4. All headlights/interior lights work, fasten seat belt light/sound goes on, radio still works etc. The radio says Checking... then Check OK when it works and doesn't work. No noise from engine at all just a quiet noise that sounds like the antenna when it goes up and down (but it's not). Car will usually start within 15-30 minutes but sometimes longer. Also will sometimes work immediately after I move the car from Park all the way to gear 1 repeatedly? Not sure what that means, but it doesn't always work-therefore I don't thin its because the car doesnt know that its in park. This has stumped all the mechanics here- any ideas?

Answer 1

Check to see if the battery cable is loose. Sometimes, you can get enough "spark" to run the accessories but not enough to turn over the engine. If they are tight, make sure they also clean and not corroaded.

Answer 2

If the problem is intermittent(no rhyme or reason) it's probably the neutral safety switch.If it occurs when the engine is hot,then most likely the armature in the starter motor is bad.I'm leaning more toward the neutral safety switch.The whirring sound you alluded to is the electric fuel pump.If the car starts easily in neutral,then the contacts in the park position are worn and the switch should be replaced,for sure.If it doesn't start in neutral,the switch may be gone or you may have a broken wire.Have a good mechanic (ask around) look at it.

Answer 3

Neutral/Park safety switch faulty.

ADDED: You need to find better mechanics.