[ReattaInAustin]

Over the last month my 1990 Reatta starts fine only 50%? of the time. At other times, NOTHING. Radio comes on instantly (car turned off with radio on) and headlights will come on, but engine doesn't even turn over. No noises whatsoever, no clicking, absolutely noiseless (after mindfully turning off radio). So, I'll turn key off and wait a few minutes. Meanwhile plenty of "juice to operate headlights, interior lights, radio, etc. Sometimes it will then crank right up and be fine, sometimes must wait an try over and over again. So far, it has always started up just fine (eventually) but might have to wait 15 -20 minutes while trying to start car 5-8 times.

No rhyme or reason as of yet. It doesn't matter the weather (no severe temp changes), rain or sunny (no humid conditions), doesn't matter how long it's parked (10 minutes into the icehouse or overnight) doesn't matter the time of day (mornings or nights). New Sear's DieHard Gold just installed 3 mos. ago. I've had a second key made and it doesn't matter which key is used...same results.

Thanks in advance for sharing any similar experiences.

[47jag]

Has the car an automatic transmission? The problem could be the neutral safety switch. Are you trying it only in Park? Try it in Neutral. Also try turning the key while moving the selector lever.

Art

[stellar]

It might just be worn out. Brushes down to nothing. A starter for that isn't very expensive, unless you have the mitsubishi starter. 90 Reatta used a delco and a mitsubishi starter from the factory. If you have the mit. starter replace it with the delco. They interchange. The mit starter is expensive if you can find one. If the brushes are low and you have been starting it that way for a month the armature is probably burnt too.

[realfastboats]

I have a similar problem. I just purchased a 1989 Reatta, and the fuel pump has been replaced. It will just start, then immediate shut off. I am soooo confused. Can any one give some direction on this problem??

[Larry Schramm]

Trying to remember. Does that car have passkey theft deterrent? If so I believe that that might be your problem. The key is not recognized and will start for a moment and then stop.

[ErnieR]

When the system doesn't recognize or acknowledge the code from the key it will shut itself down for 15 minutes. Each attempt adds to the delay that's why the time between successful starts is different. If the two keys make no difference it's probably a problem with the module.

Do you have working remote fobs? Unlocking with the fobs disables the anti theft as does unlocking with the key but fobs that don't always work can confuse the system.

Next time after the 1st unsuccesful start attempt remove the key and try unlocking and locking the door with the key a few times and try again.

I ran a Buick dealership when they were new and even then the system could be disrupted by multple attempts.

Ernie R