starter problem '00 Mazda Protege 41K Miles

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Stephen - 21 Jul 2006 14:28 GMT

Recently my wife's car has had some issues when starting. When the key
is turned there is this "click" sound (just one click usually) and that
is it. The engine does not make a sound at all. Eventually the car
can start up after a second or third try, and then everything in the
car seems to operate fine.

I checked the battery, as I have tried to start cars with dead
batteries where I get a similar multiple clicking sound, but the
battery is fine.

Is this a case of me needing to replace the starter? A starter for a
car this new should not go bad this quickly, should it??? I checked
prices and they seem to run about $125, and I am assuming another $150
for installation?

Is there any other possibility of problem in the wiring that I may
overlook?

Thanks for your help,
Stephen

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cselby@mts.net - 21 Jul 2006 22:04 GMT

>Recently my wife's car has had some issues when starting. When the key
>is turned there is this "click" sound (just one click usually) and that
>is it. The engine does not make a sound at all. Eventually the car
>can start up after a second or third try, and then everything in the
>car seems to operate fine.

The click is coming from the starter solenoid. They are are not
repairable but are replaceable. Before you get one installed, check
all ground wires from battery to engine to body. Take them off, clean
the surfaces, smear dielectric grease in the area and re- attach.
Low voltage from a bad ground will give the same symtoms as will a
loose/dirty connection at the battery + post. I assume the you have
cleaned the batt cable ends and have checked for tight connections.

This is not to say that the rest of the starter is still serviceable.

Pete

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