1992 100S starting issues
Please help - First let me say that my car knowledge is limited and
that any help will be greatly appreciated. I had no problem starting the vehicle this morning and heading to work, but would not start this evening. The temperature has been in the lower teens all day/ evening. The electrical system seems to be fine as the lights, wipers, dash all function as if the car were startting just as it has historically for me. I originally thought I needed to replace the battery. I put the key in the ignition and turn but there is no cranking or any noise other than a dull hum. I know I was getting low on fuel (the signal for low fuel jsut went off as I was pulling into work this morning), and wasn't sure if the cold weather cold somehow afftect. Just hoping somebody can point me in a direction, as I am not sure what to check, etc. To compound the issue, I am in the process of looking for a new mechanic. My previous auto repair provider "irked" me when they ealier in the week replaced the ignition switch and failed to give me the new keys, and then had another issues with it the very next day that required another tow for something they were able to fix in five miniutes.Ther car worked fine all weekend, so I am guessing/hoping the new ignition switch is not part of the issue. If anyone knows a good mechanics around Harrisburg, PA I would appreciate that information as well. |
Re: 1992 100S starting issues
You may have a problem with the battery/charging system or the starter
motor/solenoid/ignition switch. This is pretty basic stuff which any mechanic or auto-electrician should be able to resolve. Do the various warning lights turn very dim when you try to start? If so, you have the first problem. It could be loose or dirty battery terminals, a dying battery, loose alternator drive belt or faulty alternator. If the warning lights remain bright when cranking then the problem is with the starter motor not trying to turn the engine over. More likely, the motor is not being activated properly by the ignition switch or the solenoid. Did the work on the ignition switch pre-date the starting faults? Were both the switch and steering column lock changed as a unit? If only the lock was changed it's possible that the switch which is located behind the lock may be faulty. If you can access the starter motor and identify the solenoid which is attached to it you will see a thick wire from the battery, a bunch of other wires connected to its terminal and a single separate wire. That single wire comes from the ignition switch and is only live when you turn the ignition key during starting. Assuming that the battery condition has been eliminated, if that single wire goes live when it should and the engine still doesn't turn over then you probably have a faulty starter. Not the kind of job you want to do in winter before work and not really advisable if you are not at ease working in the engine bay but maybe useful information when dealing with repairers. |
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