The last couple times I tried to start my car i would turn the car to the ON position, radio works, lights work, everything. Then when i turn the key to start I get one click sound outside the car (couldnt locate it yet since I am alone) and everything goes off as long as i have the key in the starting position. As soon as I let go everything goes back on. I sit there for a while and play with it for ten minutes and eventually it just starts. Thats how the last two times Ive done it worked. Im thinking its the starter. Anyone able to confirm that? And how involved is changing the starter anyways?

 

It is a simple job, a couple connections to undo and a couple bolts. If your exhaust is in the way, it might make more work, but still not too bad.

I would still do some testing of the battery before you dig in, just to cover bases.

 

alright thanks. i didnt think it was too bad i remember i had to remove some stuff around there before for something else I did. What kinda tests should I run and how much would a starter run me anyways? Im stuck at school with minimal tools so Im newb status again, sorry

 

You might want to test your alternator and battery.

 

Don't forget to check the all important battery cables for corrosion and tightness.

 

Check to see if your battery has 12.X volts resting with a voltmeter. After starting you should have 13.X to 14.x volts. (this means alt is charging battery) You can also have the battery tested on a deep cycle machine that tests to make sure it is taking a complete charge.

Another test is checking the amp output at the alternator output itself if the alternator is in suspect. (I would pull the alternator at this point, and have it tested at autozone or orielly)

Like mentioned check cables. I have had my ground cable slip off on another car before after loosening.

Your car should still start even if the alternator is out, and the battery is charged. It will only run till the battery drains however.

 

That sounds a lot like a loose/dirty battery terminal or bad/loose ground. A really dead cell it the battery would too, but it wouldn't be intermittent.

 

Drive up to the local parts store and have them test the battery and alternator. It's free and easy.

 

once it does the click...get out...go wiggle your battery cables and try to shake your battery...if it starts after that...take it in and have them load test your battery.

They will see what voltage it drops down to while you try to start and just hook it up to your battery alone and let the machine run its course. takes less that 2 minutes to have them do it.

If all checks out, i would still check all your cable...then last case might be your solenoid...

 

It sounds like a starter to me. Pretty easy to change, need a socket set (not sure what sizes needed off hand) a cresent wrench jack and jack stand(s) and some patince. Last time i did one on a formula it was hard to get out past the exhaust but i did get it without removing the exhaust.