VS starting problem need opinions..

[fkford]

got a 1996 vs ecotec..everytime i try start it, it doesnt want to start until like 5 trys after..sometimes starts on the 10th time..just random times..

It isn't the battery because all the electrics work so im pointing the finger at the starter motor but just want to get a few opinions first before i go ahead and buy one and change it..cheers heaps!

oh and also when i try start it and it doesn't start i hear a wierd clicking noise (think its the relay clicking over not sure)

[Vee-ard]

Its not the crank angle sensor is it? Because it really sounds like it is.

Try replacing one of those for $50 bucks before you spend 200 on a starter motor plus labour

[hako]

Firstly I'd have another look at the battery and the terminals - if it's not in good condition it will not crank the engine and the relay/solenoid clicking is a sign of a bad battery. Lights may appear OK but the massive load of the starter is something a failing battery cannot cope with.
A good test to check the battery is to turn the headlights on and get someone to watch the brightness of the lights whele you try and crank - if they dim badly then it's your battery gone for sure.
If you have a multimeter you could check the battery voltage after the car has been sitting overnight - it should by 12.8V.....under 12.6 and it's suspect. You need to leave the car overnite to stabilise the battery voltage.
The clicking noise can also mean the solenoid on the starter is bad but first check the battery as it is cheaper and easier to fix.

[fkford]

Firstly I'd have another look at the battery and the terminals - if it's not in good condition it will not crank the engine and the relay/solenoid clicking is a sign of a bad battery. Lights may appear OK but the massive load of the starter is something a failing battery cannot cope with.
A good test to check the battery is to turn the headlights on and get someone to watch the brightness of the lights whele you try and crank - if they dim badly then it's your battery gone for sure.
If you have a multimeter you could check the battery voltage after the car has been sitting overnight - it should by 12.8V.....under 12.6 and it's suspect. You need to leave the car overnite to stabilise the battery voltage.
The clicking noise can also mean the solenoid on the starter is bad but first check the battery as it is cheaper and easier to fix.

oh ok sweet. cheers mate will do...also when i turn my system up loud the headlights and my gauge lights dim to the beat...wierd......pretty sure that wud b the battery

[Kurtp]

oh ok sweet. cheers mate will do...also when i turn my system up loud the headlights and my gauge lights dim to the beat...wierd......pretty sure that wud b the battery

If it does that while running it sounds like your alternator, get a volt meter, run your car and check the voltages going into the battery, if they seem normal and not fluctuating possibly is your battery or even a short?