I am having a problem with the starter motor or solenoid (I think) on a 1996 Acura 3.2 TL with 114,000 miles. When you try to start the car the first time each day, you must turn the ignition key from 6 to 20 times before the engine will start. Sometimes it will start at the first key turn for several days. When you turn the ignition key there is a clicking sound, so the problem is not the battery since it is outputting 12+ volts. My theory is that each time you turn the ignition key it advances the starter motor a bit, so it eventually reaches a point where good contact is made and the engine will start.The starting problem never occurs after you are out-and-about and start the engine after several stops and starts, only the first time each day. I have described the problem to the Service Representative at my Acura dealer and he claims it is either the starter motor or the solenoid. Another independent Japanese car repair shop mechanic said that the contacts in the solenoid or starter motor get burnt or blackened and have poor electrical contact, so the engine will not start at that position. The problem is frustrating and expensive to fix, since the starter motor is buried behind other components which must be removed to access the starter motor. Most places want around $700 to replace the starter motor/solenoid, most of which is labor cost.

My question: Is there any other solution or troubleshooting procedure to this problem other than replacement of the starter motor/ solenoid?

 

If you have 2 mechanics telling you that your problem is with the starter/solenoid, then you should replace it and go from there. If not, you are just playing a guessing game.

 

What you describe is exactly what my problem is - with a 98 3.2 TL