Starter Going?

My 2003 T&C 3.8L's starter seems like it starting to give out. Sometimes turn the key and nothing. Sometimes half a crank. Always if I turn key off then try again I get a strong crank and starts right up. Battery seems fine. Should I just go ahead and replace the starter? Or could this be something else?

There are a lot of reports of corrosion in the front control module. You could pull the relay and do some checks there. Wiring diagram here to help you with your testing.

Two ways to determine (that I know of). Turn the key to start, listen for the click at the starter, then tap on it with a hammer. If it cranks, the solenoid contacts in the starter are shot. #2 (the best way) Turn the key to start. Using a meter check for 12vdc at the starter solenoid wire connection on the starter. It will be the smaller diameter wire of the two connections. If the voltage is there, again the solenoid contacts are shot.

You can change the starter or change the contacts for half the price but more work.

My 2003 T&C 3.8L's starter seems like it starting to give out. Sometimes turn the key and nothing. Sometimes half a crank. Always if I turn key off then try again I get a strong crank and starts right up. Battery seems fine. Should I just go ahead and replace the starter? Or could this be something else?

did you make sure cables are good and clean and battery good charged? i'd try that then go for starter..

You can change the starter or change the contacts for half the price but more work.

Getting ready to change the starter motor... (2003 - 3.8L) Appears simple. Haynes repair manual shows three bolts but I've read posts saying there's only two. Can anyone clarify? Is it easy to get out?

Getting ready to change the starter motor... (2003 - 3.8L) Appears simple. Haynes repair manual shows three bolts but I've read posts saying there's only two. Can anyone clarify? Is it easy to get out?

Just finished starter install. Haynes manual was wrong. There were two bolts and one guide pin. Upper bolt a bit of a PITA.

Also kind of hard to keep spacer in place when sliding in replacement motor.
Tip: use a small piece of tape.