Bjbpe

We've been having a little damp weather here in Wyoming and I'm running into a little trouble with the starter (1987 S4). Occasionally, especially if the air is damp and cool, I hear the solenoid click but the starter does not engage. In other instances it starts normally. I'm pretty sure that the problem is associated with the solenoid and not the starter motor. Question: Does the solenoid come as a separate piece or is it integral with the starter housing, i.e. is it likely that I will have to replace the entire assy or just repair/replace the solenoid? Thanks all.

davek9

Hi I think you replace the entire unit, have you checked and cleaned the 14 Pin connector?
Disconnect the Battery first!!! Also any related connections and or Relays.

I've seen a starter turn over on a manual trans when a guy starter spraying cleaner w/o disconnecting the Battery first, this was after I had warned him to do so, he was lucky the car didn't hit anything!

Dave

The Forgotten On

Clean the contacts on the back of the starter and the wiring's lugs that are screwed onto the starter, that is what caused my 81 to have issues starting just like yours and now it has no issues at all.