2003 Dodge Intrepid trouble starting.

TRAE617

MEMBER
2003 DODGE INTREPID

Engine Mechanical problem
2003 Dodge Intrepid 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

My fiance's car has a finicky starter. Sometimes it starts right off the bat, and other times we have to sit there and try several times before it starts. It runs fine once it starts, but its beginning to worry me that it might not start at all someday. We've replaced the battery. Once I can afford it I plan on replacing the alternator, distributor cap, and spark plugs just to see if that helps any. I'm just afraid that it might be her starter, which I really don't have any desire to get under her car to replace nor the money to take it to the shop and get it done. If none of the things I do fix the problem, what would be causing her car to do this?

1 Reply

INTERNETMECHANIC

MECHANIC
700 POSTS

Are you saying, it cranks good, but won't start? Or it won't even crank? If it won't even crank, check the circuits at the starter relay. The red wire at starter relay, is hot all the time. Yellow wire goes hot with the key in the crank position. Tan wire is grounded by the pcm. Brown wire carries voltage to the starter, when relay is energized. You need to test when problem is ongoing. Some of the national brand autostores will test the starter for you. Yep, you have to take it off and take it to them. Intermittent stuff can be a pain.