94 Buick won't start--again!, etc.

[mybuick]

Just went to start my 94 LeSabre, and nothing. Power (dash lights, antenna, radio, etc) all come on, but the engine won't turn over--just a tiny click. This has happened twice before: the first time, 2 yrs ago, there was no power at all, and they replaced the fuel pump. It was fine for about a year. Next time was exactly like what happened today: they replaced the starter, and it's been fine for a year or so. I've owned this car for 2 years, and it's always had problems starting--sometimes it's fine, sometimes it has to turn over a few times; but if I turn the ignition all the way off and try again, it often starts fine. What's going on? Am I going to have to replace the fuel pump or starter again, after such a short time? Why does every mechanic ignore me when I ask about the weird starting problem?--I've asked 4 different mechanics, and they all shrug it off. But now I suspect it's behind all of these problems somehow. I wish I paid more attention to my dad (a mechanic) growing up! Please help! Sorry for the long post--it's my first one, and I don't have all the right technical language. THANKS IN ADVANCE for any advice!!

[matheug]

sounds like a loose or corroded ground

[Lesabrelover]

I agree with the battery cable idea. My 94 did the same thing and I replaced both the positive and negative cables and the problem went away. When I checked the old cabels, they were both corroded severly about 2 inches up from the battery post, even though they showed no signs externally.

[mybuick]

Thanks Lesabrelover! I put in a new starter, which got it running again, but still the same starting issues--I'll check as you suggested. THANKS!!

[HotZ28]

You could also have a bad resistor in you key or the ignition switch has a loose or breaking wire in it. Have a new key made at your local locksmith that can read the existing resistor. If that don't work, you may have to replace the switch mechanism.