I'm sure there are other topics somewhat related to this issue but I don't feel like browsing hundreds of pages...

The other day I got in my car, started it, it turned over, and then died about half a second later. I tried restarting and all it did was make the whirring noise and got nothing... I tried again yesterday, this time checked out the battery (which is fine) and got the same thing. Could it be as simple as spark plugs? I know next to nothing about cars. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

do you have fuel? spark? check those two things...

 

When you turn the key to the first on position...listen carefully for a soft whirring sound followed by a louder *click* coming from your dash about two or three seconds later. Do you hear this?

 

Pulled off the distributor cap... Lots of metal shavings and really, really worn down contacts. Put a new one of these bad boys on and everything seems to be just great. Thanks for the suggestions

 

I was just about to say, sounded like the distributor..
the seal on mine leaked a while back, oil got in and darn it if my car wouldn't start.. new distributor and voila, back to a-ok..