Starter and/or solenoid for 92 Q45

[susanhikergirl]

Late last night I tried to start my car and it wanted to start then it only made a metallic "not going to connect" sound. I called a local repair shop and they said it could be the starter and solenoid, but to but the battery charger on it and see if that could be the problem. Do you think I should try to tap on the starter? Any other thoughts on that? I also can hear a "clicking" sound under the hood when I turn the key. Help!!!
Modified by susanhikergirl at 8:41 AM 2/9/2008

[96Qowner]

You'll have to be a bit more specific. Did the engine crank and then not start? You tried again and it "clicked"? "clunked"?. Exactly how did things go?

Yes, often a light whack on the starter or solenoid will get you going again. But it's usually a sign that something needs repair soon.

If it cranked slowly and then just clicked, it's probably your battery charge. But if your battery is low, you might need to have your alternator checked.

[susanhikergirl]

When I tried to turn over when I initially started it, but then it went to a high pitch metallic sound only. However, I did notice when I turn the key there is a "clicking" sound under the hood that I know is not normal. Then when I try to start it it only makes the high pitch metallic sound. AAA just towed it away...
Modified by susanhikergirl at 9:34 AM 2/9/2008

[96Qowner]

Yup, sounds like the starter solenoid. That high pitched whine you hear is the starter motor, but the solenoid didn't engage the starter to turn the engine. If you can find it and whack on it, you can probably free it up. Then plan to replacing the solenoid.

[Edit] Darn ... sorry ... but you probably didn't want to go crawling under the car in this weather anyway. They'll have it going again in no time.