QuestionWe have a 98 Discovery. For several months, it seemed to be finicky starting. We would turn the key over one notch and get fuel to the engine for a second and then it would start.
Recently, my husband checked the amps on the alternator and they were fine. He decided it was a battery issue and replaced the battery. It started with no problem for a few days.
Then yesterday when I went to start it, it did not want to "fire up", but eventually after about 4 seconds of engaging the key, it would turn on. This happened twice.
This morning when we went to turn it on, nothing happened except a lot of clicks from the battery - which is completely dead - a brand new battery.
I talked with two dealerships and based on reading previous inquiries on this site, I am confused whether we should be looking at the starter, coil pack, alternator, or solenoid issue or something else. Any thoughts would be well appreciated. We are 2 hours from a dealership.
We have done some work on the car, but left big stuff to the dealership. If it is one of the above items would you attempt to do yourself, do we need a manual or is it pretty easy (we know a bit about the car and car work)? We are relatively new to the area and no of know local service center we would take it to.
Thanks! Kim
AnswerHi Kim,
by the sounds of it, you have a starter problem. Often, starter problems are mistaken for a weak battery or an alternator that does not charge.
IF the solenoid is shorting out or if the brushes in the starter are worn down, this can result in difficult or random starts. Eventually, the starter/solenoid will fail completely.
Its possible to rebuild the starter and save yourself a small fortune (almost). With the help of my neighbour, I was able to remove the starter and repair and rebuild this component.
If you do decide to repair this yourself, make sure you have a backup plan. Find a local garage or mechanic that is willing to bench test your starter. Some older, more experienced mechanics may be willing to help rebuild the starter once it's removed.
In the hands of an experienced mechanic, they can probably adapt spare parts to match the components of your starter. Some of them are quite gifted at 'making do' with parts on hand.
OR...you can swap out the starter and replace it with a salvaged one. If you are in N.America, try this website:
www.car-part.com
Search for a salvaged starter close to your home. I've used salvaged parts successfully and with a significant savings too!
If you do this work yourself, find a parts supplier who has access to the small pieces you'll need for the starter and solenoid.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
NB: if it was the coilpack, you'd have problems starting, when the engine is warming up, at idle, even while driving.
