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Chrysler Repair/'06 Chrysler Pacifica Starting Problems

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Expert: - 1/25/2012


Question
I have a 2006 Chrysler Pacifica that is experiencing inconsistent starting problems.  About 2 months ago the car would not start.  The lights and dashboard come on however when key is turned a one-click noise is heard from under hood.  The car was towed to dealer that evening and the next morning dealer called to say it started right up.  They looked over for several days and were unable to find cause.  Last week same issue occurred again – same one-click sound.  I towed car again to dealer and this time was told it was the starter so they replaced it.  I experienced no problems until last night – I came home from work and turned car off, about 15 minutes later had to run out and the same problem was back.  Car was towed again to dealer today and when it arrived there it started up without issue…  The dealer thinks I am crazy but do you have any suggestions or thoughts on the problem…

Answer
When the problem is there have a helper try the key while you open the hood and locate where the sound is coming from. Is it the starter motor solenoid switch, or the starter relay in the power box in the engine comparment? It would be helpful to know which. Might the battery be nearing the end of its life which might be the case if this is still the original battery. So listen and let me know what is clicking.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

Expertise

I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 10pm CT and attempt to answer within 20 minutes. "Maxed Out" means I am answering another question of otherwise busy, so try again later.

There are answers on file to more than sixteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. As to trucks and jeeps I only have manuals for the '04-'06 model years.

Experience

Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

Organizations
Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

Education/Credentials
Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

Awards and Honors
"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

Quickest "average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1).

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