Will not start when engine is hot

Tiny
SHANELLE28
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 VAUXHALL ASTRA
  • 1.3L
  • TURBO
  • MANUAL
  • 110,000 MILES
When I get in my car first thing it will start without any problems, once I have driven it for about six miles and engine is hot I can turn it off but if I try to start it again all I get is a click noise and nothing. If I bump it, it will start but it will not start by the key until the engine has cooled down. It has a new battery so it is not that. I have had new alternator and I do not think it is the starter motor. Please someone help!
Thursday, July 26th, 2018 AT 6:34 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,569 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

Based on your description, it sounds like the starter needs replaced. The internal windings can expand under the heat and not make contact.

Read through this link. It describes how a starter works and what common symptoms are when they go bad. Yes, it does discuss the click you hear.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-starter-and-solenoid-works

While reading through the link, you will see where it discusses the solenoid. There are two wires which go to it. One is bigger and comes directly from the battery. The other is much smaller. To test the starter, when the starter refuses to work, have a helper turn the key to the start position. At that point, you should have 12 volts to the smaller wire. The larger wire will always have 12 volts, If you find there is 12 volts to the smaller wire when the key is in the start position and the starter refuses to engage, replace the starter.

Do not laugh at this one, but often times if you tap on the starter with a light hammer, it will work. That also indicates a bad starter. LOL I have seen people do it for years, but it's not in the repair manual. LOL

Here is a link which discusses, in general, how to replace a starter:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

If you find the starter does need replaced, make sure to disconnect the battery before starting the repair.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, July 28th, 2018 AT 7:28 PM

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