help the n00b

[meteo]

hey guys, my girl's car isn't starting.. and i need some help to make me look good j/k lets see.. its not turning over, and when i try to start it, i here 1 quiet click and the fan comes on. battery seems fine. it starts when we haven't tried for several hours, but if we drive it, say to church, and come back to it, its dead.. any clues?

[RIP]

The click you hear is either from the starter solenoid or the starter relay. Either click indicates you either have corroded or loose connections on the starter or the solenoid contacts in the starter are worn and need replacing. You can save some bucks by changing the contacts or spend a little more and change the starter. Autozone will test the starter for free.

The relay is probably in the fuse/relay panel near the battery depending on the model year. Put your finger on it to confirm it clicks. Are the battery connections clean and tight?

[Mike Gerber]

My vote is for the starter solenoid contacts. You can varify this. Next time it doesn't start, get a hammer or a good size wrench and give the starter a few taps while someone holds the key in the start position. Give it a good tap, but don't try to break the starter. If the starter now cranks over the engine you have identified the infamous starter solenoid contact problem. Remove the starter from the engine and read the following thread on replacing the solenoid contacts:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=166530

Another option I like is to have the entire starter professionally rebuilt, if you can find an auto electrical rebuilder in your area. Check the phone book.

Mike

[meteo]

wow thx a lot guys, its hasn't had probs in the past couple days haha but definately, next time it dont start, ill take the advice and let ya'll know whats up. thx again!