Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - FrancePaul

I have an intermittent starting problem. Sometimes the car will start first time so no problem at all; then when I go to start the car again, absolutely nothing. All the instrument lights come on, but when turning the key there is a very slight whirring sound, that is all. The motor does not engage at all, does not turn over. Any ideas as to the problem? Thanks.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - elekie&a/c doctor

I would get the battery tested as a first check.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - gordonbennet

Sounds like the starter is turning but the solenoid isn't engaging the gear onto the starter ring for some reason.

Yep, battery first, then its a process of elimination, luckily its a proper Japanese car so as simple as you could hope for these days.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - Peter.N.

Do the instrument lights dim or go out when you try to engage the starter? If so probably the battery connections, if not a faulty starter/solonoid.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - FrancePaul

Hi. The instrument lights do not dim when trying to start the car. I have borrowed a battery starter pack, but sods law has arrived as the car is starting first time, every time. I don't want the car to start, so that I can use this pack to see if the car battery is at fault.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - gordonbennet

The starter is easy to get at, 'should' be easily dismantled too, i'd be inclined to clean the solenoid contacts and clean and lightly lube the shaft the gear slides along to engage with the starter ring, also check starter brushes etc whilst off, you can see the starter ring and judge the condition of that whilst the starters out too, this will be a lot cheaper and easier than an inconvenient dead starter leading to recovery and new complete unit.

You'll find lots of videos on Youtube how to do this if you want some encouragement, and i have no doubt that a 'sticky' exists on the Forester forum showing full instructions incl pics/video.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - FrancePaul

Hi

Turned out to be the starter motor which has been replaced. Thanks everybody for your input.

Subaru Forester 2.5 turbo - Intermittent starting - gordonbennet

Thanks to you for updating the thread too.