Expert: Ben Deutschman - 5/1/2011

Question
I have a 1997 Buick Lesabre that won't start sometimes. When it doesn't the clock is reset and dome light flickers. I have checked the connections on the battery and starter. One time I tapped on the starter and it started, but that doesn't always work. What other things should I check. I have tried a different starter and it still does it.

Answer
Intermittent no starts can be caused by a bad body ground from the Battery to the vehicle chassis, or a bad ground from the vehicle body to the Engine Block. Most vehicles have what is called a Ground Strap from the vehicle body, to a good grounding point on the Engine Block, and if that strap is corroded where it bolts on at either end, or the strap is broken, that could cause the problem you are experiencing. Check both ground connections, from the Battery to the vehicle body, and from the vehicle body to the Engine Block, and make sure everything is clean and tight.