Having a hard time starting

[Lani]

Last Sunday I went out to start my car and it wouldn't turn over. In fact, I got no response from the engine. I kept trying though and it finally started on the 4th try. I thought I might have left my lights on or something and drained the battery but I didn't. I took the car to Auto Zone to have the battery tested and it came back fine. I thought it was a fluke until today..

This morning I went out to my car and again, it wouldn't start. I kept trying though and on the 5th or 6th try I heard almost like a grinding noise from below which was scary. I tried again and it started.. Soon after I took my car to a Mazda Dealership to have it checked. They really couldn't find anything wrong with it other than a rough idle and that the throttle body sticks. They performed the fuel injection service along with a performance tune up.

Could a the throttle sticking prevent the car from starting? I should have asked them but I forgot. They want me to drop the car off next Thursday and leave it for a few days so they can get a better idea of whats going on.. Should I? Anyone here have a problem like this?

I'd appreciate any help.

[push2.0]

go to another outlet that can test the batt. or back to dare i say auto zone. Your batt. could be showin 12+volts butt the cca (cold crank amps) are what start the car if its ratted under 500cca charge or replece the batt.

[sam1]

could be the starter too. possibly even just a loose connection. You say you heard a grinding noise while attempting to start it once...that sounds to me like it could possibly be excessive wear on either the starter gear or the flywheel ring gear.

[Lani]

Actually it was the starter and I had that replaced on Monday. There were concerns about the flywheel as well but I'm told that it's fine.

Thanks for replying!

[bazooka joe]

cool! hi mel....i like how you go to the dealer for the problem and they can't find it but get you for a tune up and fuel injector cleaning.(pissed)..unless you asked them to do it...? i hope so!

[Lani]

cool! hi mel....i like how you go to the dealer for the problem and they can't find it but get you for a tune up and fuel injector cleaning.(pissed)..unless you asked them to do it...? i hope so!


I had the tune-up & the fuel injection service done as part of the 90,000mi service. I honestly felt the car needed it so yes, I did ask them to do it.

I really should learn how to work on my own car...

[bazooka joe]

I had the tune-up & the fuel injection service done as part of the 90,000mi service. I honestly felt the car needed it so yes, I did ask them to do it.

I really should learn how to work on my own car...
you should seek out your local trade school and take a night course on auto mechanics! it will give you all the basics and help you diagnose things like a bad battery or alternator...:D