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Im having an unusual starting problem with my 03 base model 6mt. When i start the car (push in clutch, prime fuel pump in the on position, then hold in start position), the car sits completely silent for several seconds before it begins to crank. once it cranks, it starts like usual. Its not cranking instantly like it should. I had trouble searching this because most searches are for a car that cranks for a few seconds before it starts. Mine is just sitting there doing nothing, then cranks and starts. The battery is brand new, the clutch safety switch is brand new, and the fuel pump is operating as intended. That leaves the starter/solenoid. Could anyone confirm this behavior being related to a bad starter?
Im having an unusual starting problem with my 03 base model 6mt. When i start the car (push in clutch, prime fuel pump in the on position, then hold in start position), the car sits completely silent for several seconds before it begins to crank. once it cranks, it starts like usual. Its not cranking instantly like it should. I had trouble searching this because most searches are for a car that cranks for a few seconds before it starts. Mine is just sitting there doing nothing, then cranks and starts. The battery is brand new, the clutch safety switch is brand new, and the fuel pump is operating as intended. That leaves the starter/solenoid. Could anyone confirm this behavior being related to a bad starter?
Might be the tdr is not engaging right away so i would start there. Or do you here any clicking by the passenger footwell when you turn to start?? Search to jump TDR relay. If it cranks everytime its not the starter.
Might be dirty contacts in the ignition switch.
Last edited by helga203; May 17, 2026 at 06:56 PM.
Might be the tdr is not engaging right away so i would start there. Or do you here any clicking by the passenger footwell when you turn to start?? Search to jump TDR relay. If it cranks everytime its not the starter.
Might be dirty contacts in the ignition switch.
I very recently replaced the ignition switch as well.
If you have a know how to use a simple 12 volt test light you can easily diagnose this...if you don't know how to read your starting system schematic below take your car to an automotive electrical specialist...they do this stuff everyday.
I replaced it for an unrelated no start issue 2 months ago. I was so sure the ignition switch was causing my issue but it turned out to be just a bad battery. Either way, i ended up with a fresh ignition switch. Back then, it would click. With this problem, you just hold the key in the start position and it starts after a few seconds. It starts everytime, but not instantly.
I replaced it for an unrelated no start issue 2 months ago. I was so sure the ignition switch was causing my issue but it turned out to be just a bad battery. Either way, i ended up with a fresh ignition switch. Back then, it would click. With this problem, you just hold the key in the start position and it starts after a few seconds. It starts everytime, but not instantly.
Well then you have some testing to do...we can't diagnose this for you over the internet.
Almost sounds like you have a time delay relay and not a theft deterent relay, just joking about this. You should instantly have 12v on the purple wire at the TDR socket the moment you turn the key to the start position. Measure across the purple wire and ground using a voltmeter to confirm this.
I have isolated the problem. A few weeks ago, i installed an alky control kit on my car. I tested the kit per the instructions and everything works perfectly. If i pull the fuse on the alky controller, my delayed start problem goes away. When i put the fuse back in, it takes a few seconds for the car to start. Im baffled and dont know what to check next. I even tried a different grounding location andcthat didn't help.
OK dude, then figure it out yourself !!..we don't perform miracles here !!...sorry if I hurt your feelings !!
no worries bud. I think its hilarious that you think you speak for an entire forum. The ego on this guy is absolutely comical. The only feelings ive felt are ones of pity felt for a delusional man who's convinced himself that he holds any prestige over an intangible world.
no worries bud. I think its hilarious that you think you speak for an entire forum. The ego on this guy is absolutely comical. The only feelings ive felt are ones of pity felt for a delusional man who's convinced himself that he holds any prestige over an intangible world.
......and you have provided zero specifics about the alcohol controller, how it is connected, pictures, etc. If you want help figuring it out then provide all the details.....or as suggested...call the manufacturer.
Was it possible that you could have tapped into 12v power that is associated with the starter control power when you installed the alky system. I am curious to know what you did to correct the problem.
Was it possible that you could have tapped into 12v power that is associated with the starter control power when you installed the alky system. I am curious to know what you did to correct the problem.
Unusual starting problems. Need input.
