When I turn the key to start the car the car wont start and the dashboard displays the lights Brake and Security, at the gas station today the guys in the garage had to tap my starter with a big metal tool. This problem occasionally leaves me stranded and is very inconvenient I was wonder what I should do? Can I change the starter myself or let the mechanic do it?

 

I may recall that if that security ligtht does NOT turn off after a few seconds than you have an issue with your VATS security system. If you have that resister in your key, the lil black thing with two contacts this could be your problem. If the car doesnt properly detect the exact resistance passing through the key then it will shut off your fuel pump and maybe the starter, its been awhile.. I''m sure someone can double check my facts after reading them. The metal tool just bridge 12 volts from a battery lead to a lead that activates your starter, easy test while the starter is in the car. Did the starter actually start up when he did this?

Yes you can replace your starter yourself, its easy. Two bolts and it drops right out. Pay attention to all the parts, if it has shims they need to go back in. I actually parked my front end on a curb infront of a auto store and took my starter off IN THE RAIN! Had them test it only to tell me that it was fine lmao sob... Cant remember but I think I had a vats issue, or a battery that didnt have enough amps anymore to crank the engine properly.

> How old is your battery? Can you have them check the amps, not just volts?
> Security light never turns off right?
> Did the starter start when he put the metal tool on it?
> Any wiring changes or work that you know of on this car?
> Anything ever done to the ignition or key? ( do you have that black resitor in it?)

 

> How old is your battery? Can you have them check the amps, not just volts?
> Security light never turns off right?
> Did the starter start when he put the metal tool on it?
> Any wiring changes or work that you know of on this car?
> Anything ever done to the ignition or key? ( do you have that black resitor in it?)[/quote]

Ok, the car started when he taped it with the metal tool but it let out a sound that sounded like the car was struggling to start and then it started in one turn of the key.

My key does have two little corresponding square black marks on each side of the key with little metal lines in it if thats a resitor?

Yea the security light doesnt turn on as long as im turning to key to start the light remains on but when i let go of the key it goes away.

The mechanics recently replaced something in the engine that was cracked and some brake pads calipers and tire axle, also the exhaust was removed for the weekend and will be fixed tomorow

 

If you move the key forward just before starting it that security light should only stay on for 3 to five seconds then shut off. I think this all happens before you try to start it. I'd be curious of how it sounds when he started it from the starter. Was it a sluggish turn over before the engine finally started? Did it sound like a rattle sound or a high pitched scream? You might just have a bad battery or a starter that needs to be adjusted. I'd start with a battery check, you should have a date marking on the battery itself. Some of them only last about 3 or 4 years, some last 10. I have to add some shims to my starter today cause its scretching loudly. I figure its seizing up because the gears are to close together. Its an awful sound... I try to get some pix to show you what the shim project looks like. Meanwhile, you might want to roll up to the parts store and have them check your battery. Maybe just take the battery up there in some other car so you dont get stranded lol

 

Always start with the easiest or most obvious cause. In your case, #1 would be a starter going bad, #2 the battery. Taping the starter wouldn't likely overcome a low battery condition. But it is possible both are on their way out. Both can be tested at most autoparts stores for free and both can be taken out with a basic socket or wrench set. Good place to start learning to work on your own car. If you take it to a mechanic, you will pay for the labor and more than retail for the part. You will also have less control over the brand (and quality) of the part installed. Save your money and buy the tools you need instead. Good luck.

 

Sounds like your brushes in the starter are worn out. They are easy to replace and their CHEAP!

By hitting on the starter, you are helping the brushes make contact. Be sure to clean the insides of the starter well. Grease all parts that had grease. Easy fix!