Thread: Engine doesnt start sometimes

My engine inconsistently doesn't want to start, I can't find a pattern other than it happens most times when the engine oil temp is around 100 degrees, and when I really want it to start. ie. when I'm in the middle of nowhere and out of mobile range.

When this happens I goto turn the key but nothing happens, the starter motor doesn't even turn. I don't think it's the battery, or the ignition barrel because if I leave it for 20 mins it suddenly decides that it wants to start up again normally.

The engine will start by push starting the car so I don't think there is anything mechanical wrong with it such as, the starter motor stuck, gearbox jammed. Attempting to start with the clutch in or out doesn't make a difference.

Is there a safety switch which stops the starter motor over a certain temp ?

96 D1 V8i Manual gearbox

Thanks Andy, that sounds about right. I will clean the contact and keep an eye on it. I was under the car yesterday having a poke around making sure nothings loose and I noticed it was full of crap.

Grover-98, I guess that is a new starter motor to fix the problem ?

I think it might be a combination of the two problems, sometimes when the engine isn't hot it will occasionally not start but a second try and it fires up fine.