Hi Everyone. I have a 2005 dodge stratus with a 2.7L engine in it. Lately I have been having problems starting it when its been sitting for 5 hours or so. But usually over night. If I drive it around town and park it places for an hour it will start every time. The problem that I am having is when I turn the key once it just clicks but if I turn it a second time the starter engages and the car starts. Also sometimes the starter will engage and stop, then when I turn the key again it starts with no problems. I have removed all the wires from the battery including the ground and cleaned them and the problem still props up. Does anyone know what might be causing this? Please let me know....

 

Starter going out probably.

 

I was thinking that too. But it does not happen thru out the day only when the car is sitting for 4 or more hours and sometimes not even then.... Is there a sensor that might also cause this?

 

My guess is the Engine heat will loosen up the actuator on the starter. so when its warm outside, or the engine has been warm, it doesnt have to try so hard to get to the flywheel. Kind of like old joints, when they are warm it feels fine, but when they get cold they dont wanna move. I would bet money that if you replace the starter, your cold troubles will disappear

 

Thank you all for replying so quickly. I was hoping it wasn't because starters are hard to get out of this car. But you are most likely right.. I will replace it.... Thanks again..