re: 1999 Outback-Starting problems?

[sunking247]

Hi,

I own a 1999 Subaru OUtback Wagon with 93,000 miles. The problem is that over the last two to three months I've been having an increasing problem with it not wanting to start on the first turn of the key. This happens only when starting it for the first time that day, usually in the morning after it hasn't been driven for 8 to 12 hours. The spark plugs are only a year old, and I recently bought a new battery after my mechanic informed me that it was losing its ability to hold a charge. I'm still having this problem after installing the new battery (the battery I replaced was only the second battery the car has had).

 

I'm thinking that perhaps the starter is starting to go. I insert the key and hear a click the first few times, it's not like the battery is dead as the clock and radio presets are still correct. I have to return the key to the neutral position, and sometimes have to jiggle it a bit to get it to turn again. on the 3rd or 4th turn (sometimes after the car half turns over) the car starts and then drives fine for the rest of the day.

 

I'd like some feedback on this problem before I head to my mechanic, also it makes my wife and I a bit nervous to drive the car as we worry about it stalling or not starting when we are far from home, resulting in a costly towing bill.

 

The car has been fault-free up till this point.

 

Thanks,

Steven

[Olnick]

I insert the key and hear a click the first few times,

 

Sounds like a classic case of burned/pitted contacts in the starter. They're cheap to purchase and relatively easy to replace, but you do have to remove the starter to get to them.

 

Whatever you do, don't let anyone sell you a new or rebuilt starter yet.

 

Try a search--contact replacement has been discussed quite a bit. Then if you have questions fire away!

[jeep5.9litre]

I would agree with the starter contacts