2005 neon xst no crank problem. Very intermittent most prevalent in the morning and after sitting for a while. Can turn the key a dozen times with nothing happening and then all of a sudden it cranks over and starts right up runs no problem no check engine light. The things I've done trying to track down this problem i.e. jump starter at solenoid it cranks no problem does not change the problem with the key, this kind of indicates the starter is probably okay. If the ignition switch is on and engine is not turning over if I jump the starter solenoid it cranks over but will not start. Kind of indicating to me the same circuit that operates the starter also operating the fuel injection system. I have cleaned and re-crimped as many grounds that I could find in the engine compartment i.e. main negative battery to starter bolt from there to bottom of battery box. Ground from battery to fender well, both left and right grounds to the radiator support. Positive battery terminal to fuse box and also to starter. Of course both battery terminals themselves. Swapped out starter relay,checked fuses inside and out. Checked neutral safety switch, switching from part to neutral has no effect and the plug was clean and dry. Checked the harness directly above battery that has starter solenoid wire again the plug is clean and dry. Disassembled ignition switch cleaned and re-grease contacts again no joy. Of course the problem being so intermittent after doing a few things it will deside to start starting LOL
The harness on the backside of the engine feeding the alternator and oxygen sensor shows signs of some signs of heat damage from the exhaust system but I don't think that's where the problem is either. About the only thing I have not done is to pull the PCM and check the harnesses. Does anyone know where the PCM gets its ground from?
I have read as many of the comments I could find online and tried just about everything. And I see this is a common problem as far as the intermittent part people taking their cars in and having them check out the problem goes away for a while and comes back just the same. Sorry to be so long-winded just trying to be thorough thank you for any comments and please any help. The battery is new and has a good charge Thank you agian Jeff