Today was the 6th time I've had this problem. I turn the key to start the car, and the starter just doesn't seem to catch (kinda like an old car does). I'll try several times, no avail, remove the key, and try again. Eventually it'll start, but this problem really blows my mind as the car has 22000 and change on the odometer, and this problem has occurred in different outside and motor temperatures. The dealer won't do anything since the problem isn't reproducable (happens at random). Anyone had similar problems or have any suggestions?

 

Do you mean that the starter turns over, but the engine doesn't? Or something different.

 

Maybe I'm using the term "turning over" incorrectly. I turn the key, it makes that noise like it's trying to start, but it doesn't seem to catch? Am I describing this correctly or do I speaking like a drunken fool?

 

Well there are a couple noises. It could be a clicking noise, meaning that your solenoid is activating, but there's not enough juice to turn the motor. It could be that KKKHHHHGGGKKKK sound, which would be a loose starter motor, broken starter motor teeth or broken flywheel teeth.

 

It's the noise you normally here when you turn on the motor, except that the motor doesn't turn on. I think it's that repetitive KKHHHHGGGKKK sound you speak of...

 

Sounds like you may be on the engine recall list.

 

Car did it again yesterday. Took me about 5-6 minutes to get it started. Dealer said that unless they can reproduce the problem, they can't do anything, and I really don't feel like leaving them with the car for a week.

 

Next time it happens have it towed into the dealer and wait till they figure out what the problem is.

 

Well, I don't want to have it towed to the dealer, only to have them turn the key and it working. Then I'll be stuck with the $100 tow fee. Plus my car is in a parking garage underground, and a tow truck likely won't fit...

 

One word: Videotape.