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What causes an ignition delay when starting a car?
When I turn the key to start my 2018 Ford Bronco, there is about a 3-second hesitation before the engine starts to crank. It happens pretty frequently—not every time I start the car, but close. What causes an ignition delay when starting a car?
Lynell Spencer · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Even a short ignition delay when starting your car causes so much anxiety! Especially as the pauses become more frequent—and you know that your car is eventually not going to start.
Ignition delay when starting a car is likely caused by a faulty starter or starter relay.
If the problem is the starter relay, you may hear a clicking noise when you turn the key before the engine fires. If this is your problem, a mechanic can replace the part for about $70. To replace the relay, you’ll need to locate it (using your owner’s manual), pop out the old one, and firmly press a new one into place.
If the problem is the starter itself, this repair can cost between $200-$1400, depending on your car and the starter’s damage. You may have the option of using a rebuilt starter, which can save a few bucks.
To replace the starter, a mechanic will:
- Disconnect the battery
- Remove the mounting bolts and wiring to the starter
- Remove the faulty starter
- Mount the new starter and reassemble the connections
- Start the car and test the new starter system.
The more you know about car repair, the less likely you are to get scammed. The same is true for your insurance.
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MORE: How to know if a mechanic is taking too long with repairs
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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