Suspected starter problem

[cowboyili]

I have a 98 GTP Grand Prix. I have problems starting - it wouldn't even turn over. After turning the key to ignition, then back off, then back to ignition it would start up usually. This morning it did not start up and never turned over either. I have never replaced a starter nor have I had a bad starter before, but that's my first guess. I have no problem with fuel delivery because my car runs smoothly. So, if anyone knows for sure what this problem is or can confirm my thoughts about the starter - it would be much appreciated.

PS - How long does it take and how difficult is it to get to the starter?

[richtazz]

do you have a security light illuminated on the dash when it doesn't start?

[BNaylor]

It sounds like you may have worn out contacts in the ignition switch since you had to play around with it. Are you having the problem regardless of whether the shifter is in PARK or NEUTRAL?

It could be the starter but I would check 12 volts in the ignition circuits first. You can check the 12 volts at the starter solenoid S terminal with ignition to start. Before that is the ignition relay and neutral/park safety switch.

The hardest part of replacing the starter is getting to it. You'll have to safely jack up the driver's side and remove a plastic splash guard. When replacing starter make sure both battery negative and positive cables are disconnected first. Remove negative cable first. About a 1 - 2 hour job.

However, I strongly suggest troubleshooting first.

[cowboyili]

When I turn the key, I don't notice any Security warning other than the usual light up of everything else. By that I mean, I get all of the lights and radio, check engine light (before it turns over), etc... Everything seems to work fine other wise. One thing I did notice was that my window was moving up very slowly, which was unusual - but I had power to everything else.

[BNaylor]

How old is the battery? If you have a meter check for voltage across the pos. and neg. terminals - Reading of around 12.0 - 12.5 volts. Also, you could get it tested.

[cowboyili]

Okay, I will check the battery. I believe it's about a year and a half old. That obviously would be the easiest thing to check so I'll start there. If all of my electronics are working correctly (radio, clock, overhead lights, etc...), would that eliminate that possibility of it being the ignition switch?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by cowboyili

Okay, I will check the battery. I believe it's about a year and a half old. That obviously would be the easiest thing to check so I'll start there. If all of my electronics are working correctly (radio, clock, overhead lights, etc...), would that eliminate that possibility of it being the ignition switch?

May not rule it out but the battery is the best starting point.

I mentioned ignition switch due to your description of the problem. Having to mess with it and for your year model GTP it is a common problem area.

[cowboyili]

I see, very interesting. I'm hoping it's the battery or the starter because I feel confident I can do those, but the ignition sounds like something I'd have to pay someone else to screw me over. Thank you very much for your help and direction.

[cowboyili]

bad alternator. had the battery charged up and it started fine.