2nd Opinion...Bad Starter?

[derrickjon]

Took my car into Honda today to get a couple things fixed including a starting issue have been having. I used to have a couple symptoms of not being able to start my car. I figured it was 2 different problems due to the symptoms. I have had the ignition switch back replaced and the main relay replaced. This took care of one of the symptoms. I almost feel like the ignition switch didnt need to be replaced because it didnt really fix either symptom permanently, but whatever. Now, for the second symptom they are telling me I need a new starter, which after labor will cost over $400. This has been going on for a while. Basically what happens is I turn the key and the car doesn't start. It makes no sound when you turn the key except maybe a little click. When I turn the wheel slightly while turning the key it will 90% of the time turn on just fine. Should I get a second opinion? Seems like if my starter was bad and for how long this has been going on I would have been dead in the water on it by now. I tend to think its something electrical or with my ignition.

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[P_Adams]

Originally Posted by derrickjon

Took my car into Honda today to get a couple things fixed including a starting issue have been having. I used to have a couple symptoms of not being able to start my car. I figured it was 2 different problems due to the symptoms. I have had the ignition switch back replaced and the main relay replaced. This took care of one of the symptoms. I almost feel like the ignition switch didnt need to be replaced because it didnt really fix either symptom permanently, but whatever.

Now, for the second symptom they are telling me I need a new starter, which after labor will cost over $400. This has been going on for a while. Basically what happens is I turn the key and the car doesn't start. It makes no sound when you turn the key except maybe a little click.

When I turn the wheel slightly while turning the key it will 90% of the time turn on just fine.

Should I get a second opinion? Seems like if my starter was bad and for how long this has been going on I would have been dead in the water on it by now. I tend to think its something electrical or with my ignition.

Automatic or standard transmission?

If you're sure about the "Little Click", it may well be the starter. You may be hearing the solenoid trying to engage.

If it's a standard, you can try bypassing the clutch starter override switch.

P

[derrickjon]

Its Automatic.

[P_Adams]

Originally Posted by derrickjon

Its Automatic.

In leu of a clutch mounted starter over-ride switch, Automatics incorporate the starter safety switch with the console shifter mounted Transmission Position Switch.
I'm sure you have, but I must ask: Have you tried starting in in Neutral rather than Park? Does it react differently?

P

[derrickjon]

No, I have not thought to try that. If it reacted differently I am guessing that would mean it wasn't an issue with the starter?