Hey guys,

I'm seeking some advice of what could be wrong with my Neon '05 (SE, 37k miles, manual, serviced regularly)

I didn't use my car for about 3 chilly, moist days (because of holidays, all I needed was at home) and then yesterday, when I tried to start up my car, all I heard from under the hood is the engine trying to unsuccessfully start. As this happened to me before (in my previous car), I thought it was the battery. So I changed it, but the problem still persists.

When I turn the key, you can hear the starter turning and the engine turning a few times, but it feels like there just isn't enough juice.

I had a handful of situations like this in the past with this car, but I could start the car after waiting 10 or so minutes. I was told that the reason was that I didn't turn they key long enough, and the spark plugs got wet from the fuel, so I had to wait for them to dry those 10 minutes. That made sense in my head.
This time however, I've waited hours and it still wont turn on.

The car is still under warranty, so I'm gonna have it checked out at the dealer, but I would love to know at least a little bit of what could be the reason.

Any help is appreciated!

 

do you hear the fuel pump working...? that could also be a reason for the car not starting.... if i were you i'd try hooking directly up to a charger and try starting... but thats just me......

 

What your describing is flooding the engine, but I think its pretty much impossible to flood a fuel injected car, unlike carburated.Like Zero said check your fuel pump. I have also heard a few people say they have had problems with either the cam orthe crank shaft position sensor. it will kill the fire to the plugs if it is jacked.

https://dodgeforum.com/m_1055045/tm.htm

check this post out.

 

Thanks guys!
Funny thing just happened. The tow truck guy tried to turn it on, and of course it didn't work. Then he tried to turn it on, while tapping on the gas pedal, and after some time it turned on. And yes, miraculously, it turns on normally like it should as well!

Knowing this, can you guys better diagnose the problem?

Also, I love how im 1,000 miles after my warranty :-D

 

he mentioned moist days... i doubt its the cam or crank sensor. Those two sensors failing would produce a CEL. I think its just the connections somewhere on the battery or the charger itself.

To the OP, have you tried to jump start it with another vehicle yet?