intermittent starting problem

After my Mazda 3 came back from the body shop, repairing some damage caused by an accident, it started having intermittent starting problems. I would turn the key as usual all the way to start the engine, but nothing would happen. Almost like dead battery, except it's not, since the battery is brand new and all the other electrical devices working perfectly (wipers, lights, etc.). I would then wait a couple of minute, put the key in the ignition again, turn it and it would start no problem. sometimes I would have to wait 5 minutes, sometimes 15 minutes, unpredictable, very frustrating. Sometimes it starts on the first try, too.
Any idea what could cause this to happen? starter maybe?
Thanks,
Frustrated Esh.

I am having the same problem with my daughters 1995 Rodeo Isuzu. We have replaced the starter, ignition wire and relay wire. We have had it in and out of the shop more than I care to even admit. Anyone have any ideas?

Are your battery cables tight at the battery, starter and the ground cable at the chassis/engine? Sounds like a poor connection somewhere. Check in the relay/fuse box under the hood for a start relay, have an assistant try starting the car, feel and listen for the relay to click when the ignition switch is turned to the start position. I'm not sure about the 3 but most vehicles have a chassis to engine ground cable, if it does it should be tight and if installed over fresh paint the paint the area under the cable eye should have metal to metal contact.

Clifton

Clifton

Thanks Flash!

Our mechanic went in this time and actually reconnected a bunch of wires...there was sodering involved....not really clear what all he did. I do know he replaced the relay wire ...but he also worked on the ground wire. It has been 2 weeks and it's still all good! Which is the longest it has been so we are keeping our fingers crossed.

a mates wifes astra had a similar problem after a repair job. it ended up needing a new immobilizer unit and keys. the code hopping went haywire