ever since i got this car, it occasionally takes me a few turns of the key to get the starter to go. then the starter works great. well finally it got to a point where i couldn't start it a couple days ago (turned the key about 20 times with nothing. accessories all came on just fine). i finally got a chance to check it out and i checked the ignition fuses and gave it another go, and after 3 or 4 turns, it started right up. i moved it onto ramps so i could check the starter out, cut it off, tried again, and it worked again. so now i have a problem. i have nothing to test, because it works. it won't work forever, and may leave me stranded next time i take it out. whenever i turn the key and the starter doesn't turn, i never get a click. i'm thinking the solenoid?

 

Replace the starter relay.

 

i pulled that out and it looked brand new. inside the connections was just flawless. but yeah, i think i'll try that. next time it happens, i'll be able to test stuff. i hope...

 

That relay has been troublesome for people in the past, regardless of age.

 

hmm. good to know. thanks. that's one expensive little tiny item though lol.

have you ever heard of rigging up a different relay from another car to work? so it would be more reliable?

 

just to close up this topic for record's sake:
i replaced the relay, problem completely fixed. and i didn't spend $70 on a new one from courtesy. i got one from advanced auto for $17. and it's great. so i'll see how long it holds up. probably longer than i'll have the car so it's all good!

 

Of course the problem was fixed... I told you what to replace.

 

yeah i know! i didn't doubt that was the problem! and thanks for that advise. i really wouldn't have figured that one out if it didn't come up while searching.