Starts Ok, Won't, Starts OK, Won't - '90 Reatta

[Guest ReattaInAustin]

Starts Ok, Won't, Starts OK, Won't - '90 Reatta<!-- google_ad_section_end -->

<HR SIZE=1><!-- google_ad_section_start -->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.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->

[89REATTAJIM]

My '89 was doing the same thing. It was the neutral switch relay.... Just above the parking brake release lever. 1 of 2 relays up there....... Jim

[D-a-n-i-e-l]

Check and clean starter connections. Also check to see if there is voltage at the starter solenoid when it will not start. (These cars are no diffrent than any other, when it comes to the general mechanics of the thing.)

[padgett]

If the dash/radio are not blanking when you turn to START then I'd be suspecting the starter switch near the bottom of the steering column.