Q: Recurring starting problems

asked by on August 18, 2016

I’m having recurring starting problems with my truck. It happens about every 12 to 14 tries when starting my car. I turn the key in the ignition and nothing happens. My dashboard lights up when I turn key off and try again to start my truck. It will finally start, but it's happening more and more often. Do you know what is causing this problem? What should I do to fix it?

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Carburetor backfiring and won't hold cold start.
Hi. It sounds like you are having some carburetor problems. Im going to guess you have a Holley or a Edlebrock. They both have been known to have many problems. I finally decided to get rid of my Holleys and...
Something draining the battery
If it ran for 30 minutes after a jump, the alternator is probably ok. I would start by checking the battery first. Alternators are not designed to charge a dead battery. A good battery, that is completely dead, takes more...
transmission shifting rough
Hi there, thanks for writing in about your 2004 Cadillac DeVille. Hard shifting can be caused by several items. I don't feel like the pickup screens are contributing to your concern. The transmission uses hydraulic pressure to control the shifts....
Engine starts, but will not restart for an hour
If you have confirmed correct fuel pressure when you changed the fuel pressure regulator, I would next check the engine coolant temperature sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/coolant-temperature-switch-sensor-replacement) for the fuel injection system. That sensor, if failing, is generating a false "cold" reading, causing...
There is a ticking noise coming from the dash when I unlock the car, what is it?
This is a notorious issue with this model of Impala. The noise you are hearing is most likely the blend door actuator attempting to move to its default position but is not able to do so. This repair usually requires...
P0420 OBD-II Trouble Code: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
Hi there: the P0420 OBD-II Error code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0420-obd-ii-trouble-code-catalyst-system-efficiency-below-threshold-bank-1-by-jamahl-walker) indicates that the catalytic converter is not working as efficiently as it is intended. If the voltage of the downstream oxygen sensor decreases, and begins to fluctuate like the upstream oxygen sensor,...
Brake, Battery sensor, lights, and a crackling noises.
The issue sounds to be a ground return wire on the speakers is shorting out with a ground circuit in the vehicle causing the lights and sensors to register a warning light. The brake light could be coming on for...
Cooling system, running hot, no heat
If it is below freezing the coolant may be frozen if it did not have enough antifreeze in it or your thermostat froze shut or went bad can cause you to overheat without getting any heater. You will need to...
I just changed my oil and everything went well until the test drive. The car started knocking and sputtering bad and smoke idk wha
Hi Andrew. Thanks for sending the question tonight. Changing the oil involves three basic steps, draining the old oil, removing the old oil filter, and installing new filter and oil. In some cases, if the oil filter is not correctly...

Related articles

How Long Does an Electronic Ignition Pickup Last?
Your Your vehicle depends on electricity in order to run, and this electricity can be traced back to the spark plugs which create a spark to ignite the fuel. It’s a whole process, where each step depends on the other...
How to Install an Ignition Switch
When When your ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/parts/ignition-switch) fails, it can cause a number of different issues. You may experience anything from a failure to start, to a stalling problem, to a series of electrical issues. There is never a good time...
What Does the Airbag Warning Light Mean?
When the airbag warning light stays on, the airbags won't deploy for seated passengers in a collision. This could be due to a sensor issue.