95 Legacy Starting Problem

[pelicanPaul]

The previous post was interesting. My starting problem is different. In the morning or if the car has been sitting a while, the car will not start. You turn the key, you here a click, you see the dash lights, but nothing. If you push the car forward - physically push the car forward... and sometimes even rock the car back and forth it will start right up. Sometimes it will start by moving the car from PARK to DRIVE and back again. It is automatic transmission. It seems like some sort of switch is worn. Any ideas??? thanks, Paul

[4Wheel]

Just to take a guess take a look at the neutral and park safety lockout switch.
When it is problematic again while you are holding the ignition switch in the "start" position move your transmission selector through the range and see if it makes any difference. It should ONLY start in Park or neutral.
Good luck

[sha_zapple]

I'm guessing its the same as what 4wheel said. Therse a switch to prevent the car from starting in anything other than park and neutral.

Theres a solenoid underneath the shifter trim that controls the shift lock. Im not sure if this is connected with the problem but it seems relevant. Some days Ive had to just wiggle the shifter a bit in order to get the car to start. The solenoid probably doesnt like the cold. Could be some condenstation making it stick

[mrgoodwrench69]

My wife had a similar problem a few years ago on her 95' legacy wagon,it turned out to be a crankshaft position sensor.

[HAWG]

sounds to me it could be a two fold problem. By rocking the car you are moving the starter. It could have a bad spot in it on the armature. Also could be your neutral safety switch need to be adjusted. Next time it happens, try and tap lightly on the starter with a hammer if you can, and see if it starts. If it does, then replace the starter