car randomly won't start...HELP!

[jec582]

Hi. This is my first time on this board and I am really desperate for some help. I have a 95 Geo Prizm that sometimes wont' start. I'll hear a click and all the dashboard lights and radio come on (which makes me think it is not the battery) but the engine just won't start up. I will try for a long time and still nothing but if I go back several hours later it will start up no problem. It makes me nervous because i need a dependable car and I am never quite sure if mine will start. This has been an on going problem since the spring and nobody can quite seem to figure it out. In the the past year it has had a new starter, transmission, battery, alternator and every other part you can think of. I have no idea what it could possibly be but it is VERY frustrating. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much.

[chadi]

is your car an automatic or a stick shift...because if it iss a mauanl trans car...then...it might be your clutch too...

[jec582]

Originally Posted by chadi

is your car an automatic or a stick shift...because if it iss a mauanl trans car...then...it might be your clutch too...

It is an automatic. This morning it wouldn't start again and I wiggled the shifter and then it finally started.

[HndrxAttack]

Dude I had the same problem with my 90 Geo Prizm. Until I finally figured it out. I would also hear a certain click noise. This is what you want to do. If your familar with a car. This might sound strange but IT WORKS, I DID IT TO MY CAR. Go to your car with a hammer and slightly tap on the starter. Tap it like 4-6 times. If that works. Its time for a new starter. Tell me how it works out though. Also if that doesn't work check your plugs and wires. They might need a change also. But I have a good feeling its the starter.

[myproblem]

I would just change the starter. I had the same problem and I had to put a new starter on. I have found Ebay might save you some money.

[It is a car!]

I paid $60 net for a Bosch remanufactured.
Ebay better be cheaper.

[myproblem]

That is not a bad price you done good.

[treywink]

Well, jec583, what was it; was it the stater or a faulty inter-lock (ref your wiggling the shifter)? Let's learn from your effort. Please, after you pose a question, if you get a solution, pass it along. Thanks.

[myproblem]

If wiggling the shifter caused the starter to work it will be in the switch. Try this several times and if that seems to be the problem then replace the switch if not then I would replace the starter.