I have a 1996 Volvo 850 wagon (non turbo). The car starts fine when cold, but does not want to start when hot. I think its my starter motor, solenoid or the circuit, because the car is not turning when attempting to start. After few attempts it finally turns and starts. This only happens when the car is warm. However I am puzzled, because it starts fine on first attempt when cold. How can I check this. Could it be the ignition switch? The check engine light is off and the car runs beautifully when started. Would connecting the code reader give me any clues? Please help.

Adam

I would start with a complete check of the charging system and starting system.This would include a check of both battery cables by the voltage drop method.It would not surprise me if one of the cables has too much resistance in it and as the engine compartment gets hot,the resistance gets worse.Checking codes will probably at best tell you that there is a voltage supply problem and you already know that.

4volvos please give me some suggestions how I should proceed with the voltage drop method.

Today I have changed ignition switch, but unfortunately this was not the solution. I also checked all visible ground wires. One of them was nearly broken. I fixed it and all the contacts, but still no go. I played with the shifter and this seems to help a bit, but it is not permanent solution. Maybe it is a gear positioning sensor that needs to be replaced. I think of it more, because I can not start the car in neutral, not even a sound when I turn the key. But once started the car runs fine and there is no problems with transmission shifting or lights on the dash. Today I was trying to show the starting problem to automobile electrical system garage and I was unable. The car started fine every time, but I was playing with the shifter shortly before that. This guy is a starter specialist and looked puzzled when I told him that the car starts fine when cold and does not want to turn over when hot. Any further suggestions would be appreciated.


Adam