Slightly strange, intermittent starting problem.

My 09' FIT sometimes won't start. When you turn the key, it makes a sound that is similar to an electrical arcing noise. You let off the key and try it again and then it starts fine. Took it to the dealer and got the usual BS "oh that's real common, they all do that, don't worry about it". I'm guessing that it's the solenoid? But due to the intermittent nature of the problem (maybe has happened 10 times since new) it's hard to diagnose. Anyone else seen this?

 

Despite what the dealer said, they SHOULD have checked the battery connections (big wires) at "both" ends...maybe done a battery load test also.



You could always inquire (or threaten to inquire) about your problem to Honda Customer Service. (# in the owners manual) Ask them to have a Honda factory representative call you to confirm that they all do that and tell you why. I bet they won't...

Where does the "arcing noise" seem to come from? Under the hood or inside the cabin?

 

it sounds like a bad starter to me. reason it may start on the 2nd attempt is because youve warmed it up and got it spinning fast enough to where the next time u turn over the engine the starter is able to reach enough speed and torque to finally turn over the engine and start it. OTOH, it could be an alternator/batt problem.

does your radio and interior lights work perfectly when the engine doesnt start? do your headlights work as well during this issue? if they dont or, are dimmer than they would normally be, then yeah, its prolly batt related. My gut tho would be to ck the starter if i were the tech working on ur car. but, im not......soooo......push the issue with the dealer. if they dont budge-call HONDA and go to another dealer!

 

It happened to me this morning as well (07 fit with 16000mi). When I turned the key toward the start position the dash lights began to flicker and the "electrical arc" sound (which actually relay shatter) came from the fuse/relay box. I suspecting the intermittent contact in the ignition switch. The car has a warranty but honestly I dont want the "butchers" working in the dealership to touch my car.(Have had BAD experience in the past). This problem can be related to the dielectric grease used inside ign. switch.

 

this sounds like the same problem I have. Intermittent, unpredictable. Bad starter, relay, or swith, or clutch safety.

 

I would take it to a different dealer.

 

It happen to me also Fit 2008...go Honda service centre they say it’s a battery problem. I have change the battery twice last year. I don’t think it’s battery problem...I think its related to alternator or ignition wiring. May be I will try to change to civic ignition starter...what do you think guys...?