Starter problem

SATURN
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MASTERS142
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I have a Saturn 2001 SL2 with 248,000 miles. My comuter car that runs like a top. Recently though after the drive in to work (60 miles) after stopping for coffee the car will not start. This has occurred intermittently. All the dashboard indicator lights would go on as usual, headlights are strong with no dimming upon turning ignition switch to on. No sound is heard, no cranking whatsoever. I've replaced the battery but it still occurs. After about ten minutes, car will start. Problem won't occur for a few days until I'm running late for work or need to get somewhere, then the same problem occurs. Any suggestions? Friend says possibly solenoid or starter.
Thank you. Great site!
Masters142
Feb 10, 2007 at 11:02 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Choices:

Bad connection/Ignition switch/NSS or Clutch switch/Solenoid/Starter.
Feb 10, 2007 at 11:23 PM
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JOPERKINS
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Did you ever solve the problem with your saturn?? mine is doing the same thing.
Apr 30, 2007 at 11:26 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
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Hey Masters142,

Standard or auto shift?

Let me add 1 thing to Razmataz's list. There should be a 30 amp fuse in the underhood fuse box for the starter.

Now let me tell you how to narrow it down a bit.

First you could try a local parts house that tests components free of charge. Test the battery, alternator, and starter.They should be able to do a lot even wiht these items still on the car.

Second try starting the car in nuetral if it is an auto. Move the shifter slightly while holding the key in the start position and see if it starts.

The starter and solenoid are a single unit on the sattys. There are only 2 wire connections at the starter. One small purple wire that comes from the ignition. The other connection is the large wire/s from the starter/alternator.

Check that both connections are clean and tight. When the car will not start you need to probe the purple wire with a test light or volt meter. It should have 12 volts when the key is in the start position.

BE VERY CAREFULL HERE! HAVE BOTH FRONT WHEELS UP ON JACK STANDS AND THE REAR WHEELS CHOCKED!

If the purple wire has 12 volts either the starter is bad, the power supply to the starter is bad (fuse, battery, wire and connections are bad) or the ground for the starter is bad.

If there is no power at the pruple wire then it is in the ignition, safety switch, or their wiring and connections. I can help you check those if need be also.

Good luck and let us know. :)
peppermrj
Apr 30, 2007 at 1:30 PM
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PEPPERMRJ
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[quote:be662fc281="joperkins"]Did you ever solve the problem with your saturn?? mine is doing the same thing.[/quote:be662fc281]

What year is your Satty? Standard or auto tranny? Mileage?

Good luck with yours also and let us know. :)
peppermrj
Apr 30, 2007 at 1:32 PM
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MASTERS142
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The passlock system was the culprit. I stopped using the key bob to lock or unlock or activate security system. Since then, no intermittent no start problem.
Jul 16, 2008 at 11:16 PM