Q: Starter is good but not turning over when using the key.

asked by on December 06, 2016

I can't get my car to turn over when trying to start it. I pushed started it and it started fine. I touched a screw driver on the starter and it started just fine. But when trying to start it with the key, it's like the starter won't turn over. I don't understand why. Maybe there's a clutch sensor or something. Can anyone help me?

My car has 200000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

This may be an issue of a faulty starter relay or potentially a bad ground connection to the starter. The starter relay directs power from the battery to the starter solenoid which then engages the starter when you turn the key. When this is not working properly, you may notice intermittent starting problems as you describe. Generally, when this does fail, it does so very randomly and usually without warning other than intermittent starting. The power from the battery will still power other accessories such as radio, horn, etc., but you may not have any power to the starter. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your starter relay.

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

How do you use the manual transmission?
If your car is equipped with a manual transmission, you’ll need to shift through gears by hand rather than letting the transmission handle things. Here’s how to work the system: Always press the clutch pedal all the way down when...
Too little flow on the EGR.
Have a certified mechanic check the operation (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/exhaust-gas-recirculation-egr-valve-replacement) of the EGR(exhaust gas recirculation) system. In many cases, the fault can come from an EGR valve that is not working properly or carbon build-up blocking the recirculation passages.
Gas gauge stuck
This is a common issue in GM vehicles. The instrument cluster in GM vehicles uses stepper motors to run the gauges. These motors fail often and make the gauges work erratically and give bad readings. The instrument cluster will need...
Car does not accelerate above 2000 RPM
You either have a clogged fuel filter or low fuel pressure. Change the fuel filter and then check the pressure. If the problem continues then you may need to have a diagnosis done on the mass air flow sensor or...
Wheels alignment
Hello. I'll be glad to help you with this. On a straightaway, at speed, with no significant crown on the road, if the car is properly aligned, you should be able to remove your hands from the wheel and the...
My car makes noises as if it were hitting something and it shakes
This may be related to many different things such as a misfire or a fuel supply problem. Many times a misfire or a lack of fuel supplied to an engine will cause a shaking or vibrating effect. In the case...
Did they fix the problem for the $70.00 diagnostic fee?
The diagnostic fee is needed to test the failed system or component. There are times that in the process of diagnosis the problem is found and able to be repaired at the same time without additional charge. The diagnosis fee...
What would cause the vibration i feel in my gas pedal and floor board?
Vibration felt through the floorboard can be due to tire imbalance, tire defects, or excessive radial force variation, on rear axle mounted tires. Contributing factors in the circumstance you are describing could be worn struts in the suspension. If there...
Is it bad to drive a car that needs a valve adjustment?
Hi there. If the valvetrain is out of adjustment or the lifters are stuck and making a tapping noise on the top of the engine, then that could damage the engine when driven. I recommend changing the engine oil and...

Related articles

2012 Honda Odyssey vs. 2012 Mazda 5: Which One Should I Buy?
Passenger vans may be one of the most maligned classes of vehicles. From being called "Mom-mobiles" to being mocked extensively by those who have not experienced the comfort and ease of getting into and out of a van, vans just...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Short Commutes
If If you’re lucky enough to have a short commute to work, then you need to consider different factors when buying a used car than someone with a lengthier drive (or more time stuck in traffic). Chances are good that...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Senior Citizens
Everyone Everyone needs a way to get around. You need to get groceries, get to doctors’ appointments, visit with family and more. However, senior citizens have very different needs when it comes to buying a used car than other demographics....