Car won't start

[chocobaR]

Hi. I have a 1996 2.2L Cavalier. It won't start. The only way I can make it start is by turning the key on, putting it on neutral, opening the hood and using a screwdriver between two bolts on the starter. Sometimes this technique does not work the first time, but usually I get it to start after a few tries. What could the problem be?

Thank you.

 

[BATCH71]

Bad electrical ground possibly.

The starter in my triumph spitfire needs to be whacked a few times with a wrench before it will engage. Wierd....

Good Luck!

Dave

 

[Zenmervolt]

Originally posted by: BATCH71
Bad electrical ground possibly.

The starter in my triumph spitfire needs to be whacked a few times with a wrench before it will engage. Wierd....

Good Luck!

Dave

Whacking the starter indicates that you have a burnt spot on the armature and either need to have the existing starter re-wound (i.e. rebuilt) or simply replaced.

What the OP describes could also be the ignition switch, but is more likely a connection issue as you note.

ZV

 

[LTC8K6]

Maybe the neutral start switch in the shifter?

Try holding the key in start and wiggling/moving the shifter.

Could also be a bad solenoid.

 

[tfinch2]

Had a 94 Beretta a few years back. Was having the same symptoms as the OP, and would have to jump the starter. I ended up having to replace the ignition switch.