I got this 2001 Dodge Neon in 2003 and this problem started to bite me since 2004. I never know when the car is gonna be silent after I turn the key, and I never know how many times I need to turn the key to finally get it started. Today this problem came up again, and this time it totally threw me out. I turned the key almost 100 times and eventually I gave up. There was oil leaking under the car in the middle of two front wheels. Man, I have a very strong feeling that a serious problem has finally come. [:@]I may call AAA tomorrow. Has anyone of you had similiar problems before? I noticed that when I turn the key, the head light won't dim, but I can hear a little noise like something is rotating. Does these indicate that the power doesn't go through to start the engine?
This car had been to the garage many times for this problem, but unfortunately whenever it was in the shop, it behaved well. The guy had almost checked everything related to the problem, but couldn't figure out anything at all. He had rebuilt the starter, changed the battery, and checked the cables, but non of them really solved this problem. The only thing he thought might still be a problem is the relay, but he didn't count on it very much. Can any one give me some suggestions please?[&:]

 

I have heard about Headgasket problem with Neon cars. Does it cause oil leaking? I am a rookie on cars, so please don't laugh at me if I am wrong.

 

sounds like a bad starter solenoid.........or loose wires running to it....or battery......

 

Is there Still Warranty? How many miles? Have you taken it to a dealer?

 

Yeah the guy in the shop also mentioned these words to me... He replaced the battery, checked the wires, rebuilt the starter, but still couldn't solve the problem. [>:] The bad thing about this problem is: it comes and goes. I hope this time it's completely dead so the problem can be easily detected. [&o] Thank you.

 

Unfortunately no. It's a second hand car with 60000+ miles now. After walking back to home tonight, how I wish I can afford a Lexus soon.

 

I called AAA today and planed to tow the car to Firestone, but the guy from AAA was so experienced and he helped me to start the car. He said it may be the electronic switch under the starter that had caused the problem. When I keep turning the key, at one time it may reach the point and the engine starts. Does this make sense? Any one knows how much it may cost to fix the electronic switch? Thanks.