What about the Mode Selector Switch? I found another post which says after replacing that switch "no more problems starting, no Flashing Arrow, no stall...".

Could the Mode Selector Switch cause my symptoms? That note doesn't describe the symptoms that were fixed any more than the above quote.

Thanks again,

Terry

Thanks, I didn't know about ignition switch problems. From the archives this does seem like a good candidate. One thing I didn't find was a case where a new ignition switch fixed a problem where the engine cranks but doesn't start. Could a bad switch cause that?

My son mentioned that one time the sport mode/regular mode switch light was blinking and the up arrow dash light was on. I forgot to mention it before but this seems to fit with the other ignition switch posts.

I'll call the dealer Monday; if there is a recall on our model of course I'll just let them replace it. If not recalled is there a way to confirm the switch is the problem other than replace it? That would not be a big deal anyway - I'm mostly concerned about being sure it won't break on the way home from school (500 miles). Would rather replace too many parts than not enough.

Thanks again,

Terry

There is a ground on the body in front of the battery that requires thorough cleaning every 6 months or so. Also clean all battery cables. Inspect cables and connections to make sure they are good. Even if they appear clean there still may be a problem there.
This was the main cause of my odd electrical symptoms.

Try the simplest things first. Or, you can spend a bunch of money trouble shooting. The dealer didn't know about cleaning the ground..I was told that on this board. They wanted me to replace the alternator...didn't need that for a few more years. I did change the ignition switch at one point but that didn't prevent having the intermittent not start problem every 6 months or so.

Does he have an anti-theft system on it? Those will cause the car to not respond to starting attempts if you trip it.

The PNP switch near the shift knob used to be a problem...most were replaced unter warranty with a better one. He can try pushing it once before trying to start it after it doesn't start the first time.

He can try shifting into other gears then back to park to retry starting.