1992 Dodge Dakota Starting

Tiny
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.
Friday, July 24th, 2009 AT 6:07 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,331 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
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Saturday, August 8th, 2009 AT 1:33 AM
Tiny
DCLERGET
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you for your reply. The truck did eventually start after cycling the ignition as you had suggested. The starter was replaced entirely to solve the problem and the truck starts right up every time.
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Friday, August 14th, 2009 AT 5:54 PM

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