1991 auto tranny 740 sedan with 160k miles. Starting about 3 weeks ago when I go to start car it turns over for a second or so but does not start up. After 3 to 5 attempts with same thing happening then it will start up. This does not always happen. Problem is intermittant. Some days does not happen at all and some days can happen 2 or 3 times. I am thinking a bad starter but before replacing starter wanted to run it by Brickboard to confirm or to offer maybe another reason for my problem. Thanks.

when I go to start car it turns over for a second or so but does not start up. After 3 to 5 attempts with same thing happening then it will start up. This does not always happen.

Are you saying the starter engages and turns the engine over for a second or so and then quits(with the key still fully engaged in the starting position); and that it does this several times before finally spinning it long enough to start the engine?

OR

are you saying the starter engages and spins the engine but it does not start?

If the starter is turning the engine over as it normally would and it is just not starting then the starter itself is fine.

Normal suspect for a no start that is intermittent and requires three of four attempts would be the fuel injection relay. Have you ever replaced it or reflowed the solder joints on the circuit board?

Randy

Hi Randy. Thanks for quick reply. The former not the latter is what is happening. Starter engages, turns engine over for a second or so then quits without car starting up, all the time key fully turned. I checked the fuel injection relay and it looked okay. Have another from a 240 that looks the same and fits but has different numbers. Maybe I should swap that in to see if problem goes away ? Or maybe problem is starter ? Thanks.

With that behavior you need to look at the starting circuit. The fuel injection relay has no play in the starter engagement.

A starter is a very expensive place to begin tossing parts at the problem. People more electrically inclines will perhaps have an approach to suggest.

Personally I would begin by performing some normally neglected maintenance items. Remove, clean, and grease the battery connections. Clean the connections at the battery including the small wire that feeds the 12v to the solenoid.

If you have a situation where you have a helper and meter (or test light) handy you might check the 12v to the solenoid while the key is still in the start position but after the starter has stopped spinning.

Good luck,
Randy