1992 Dodge Dakota Starting

DCLERGET

MEMBER
1992 DODGE DAKOTA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
620,025 MILES

I just acquired this truck from my grandfather about two weeks ago. It runs great and looks like new: grandpa took care of it very well. However, early this morning, I got into the truck to start it and the engine didn't turn over. The lights on the dash came on and there was a buzzing sound, but other than that, nothing happened. I tried to turn the key several times and I eventually got it started. It ran fine until I tried to start it up at about 5PM or so. Then, it did exactly the same thing. I think it's because the key is pushed slightly out from the ignition, but I've never had this problem before with any other vehicle, or even this one before today. I'm just wondering what could possibly be causing my truck to have this issue. It is probably worth noting that it was quite foggy on the morning in question.

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,752 POSTS

Do you hear one loud clunk from the starter? Is so, you have worn solenoid contacts. Keep cycling the ignition switch; it will crank eventually. This problem will get progressively worse over time. New contacts are 20 bucks, but most people just replace the entire starter.

If you do not hear that loud clunk, or the starter relay either, suspect a broken metal cam on the end of the ignition switch cylinder. Everything will work except the starter because in effect, the switch isn't turning quite far enough. This usually isn't intermittent in nature, but it sounds like something to not overlook. The dealer has an inexpensive repair kit for this problem.

Caradiodoc