1997 i30 doesn't start consistantly

[pascal]

Recently our 1997 i30 hasn’t been starting consistently; by not starting I mean that when the key is turned all of the normal lights come on but no action to the starter is completed. It usually takes 2 or 3 or sometimes many more tries to get the car to turn over. Once the key engages all systems are fine meaning it starts right up, runs fine and doesn’t have any issues. The issue feels like the shifter isn’t in park or something else is telling the car not to turn over. The problem seems more pronounced when the car is warm but there is no real consistency to this issue. Ignition switch? Something else? Any ideas on how to diagnose the problem would be greatly appreciated.

Pascal
Modified by pascal at 12:40 PM 7/21/2009

[loystock]

Have you checked the battery and connectors? No-load voltage must be 12.5VDC or higher. Disconnect the battery connectors and clean them together with the battery terminals. Corrosion on the battery terminals result in erratic starting operation. Also check the relay associated with the Park/Neutral switch.

[pascal]

thanks for this reply; the no-load voltage measures 12.49 on the terminals and cables and they look rather clean. is that too low of voltage? the battery and alternator are within a year old. i am not sure which relay is associated with the Park/Neutral switch? can you direct me there and do mean replace or test the relay?

thank you -

Pascal