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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
92
Subaru Sedan, Hot Start Problem
Q: After driving my '92
Subaru Sedan with 103,000 miles on it in hot weather for an hour or so,then
stopping for a while (about an hour) it occasionally refuses to restart.
It just goes click and won't even turn over. I have called AAA more times,
then I go back to try it, and it starts! Very annoying and embarrassing.
The mechanic says it could be the starter but that heat shouldn't be a
factor, yet it seems that after a cooling off period the engine will start
again. It seems to happen only in hot weather....Yamile
A: I
have to disagree with your technician. Heat is a factor with electrical
circuits and their components. Heat related driveability and starter problems
such as yours are very common. First, I would suggest close inspection
of the wires connected to the starter. It doesn't take much corrosion
to interfere with the operation of a starter or create a no start condition
such as you describe. Also, be prepared for the possibility that the starter
will have to be replaced. Unfortunately, the only way that the cause of
the problem can be "proven" is by having test equipment on the
vehicle at the time of failure. After a long drive try making your last
stop the repair facilities' driveway.
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