ard

I did read the various forum threads about intermittent non-start issues and I have not performed all the diagnostic steps outlined yet, so at the risk of taking up extra forum bandwidth I'll put my specific issue out there in hopes of tapping into the collective knowledge.

2008 GT3 RS

Symptoms

• No-start when cold
• Problem does not occur when engine is warmed up
• Starter interlock relay is known good
• Battery tests good
• Battery terminals are firmly attached and clean
• Key is properly recognized i.e. Immobilizer is properly disabled - dash properly displays Key 1 or Key 2
• Can hear clutch microswitch contact close - also jumpered terminals - no change
• Can hear fuel pump build pressure
• Starter clicks but does not turn over
• Repeated ignition cycles do nothing

Now here's where it gets "interesting". Causing a physical disturbance namely opening and closing the engine lid allows the car to start immediately. It cranks strongly and fires up right away.

I have not attempted to trace the starter wiring under the car, so there is the possibility there is a loose connection. The engine was out to have the coolant pipes pinned about 3,000 miles ago and at that time the crank position sensor was replaced preventatively. The problem did not occur immediately after the engine out work but started a few months thereafter. However it was never present prior to the engine coming out.

I am leaning toward a bad physical connection somewhere in the ignition system in the engine bay. I'd really appreciate any suggestions / photos, etc.

Much appreciated.

/alex

Spyerx

Starter clicks when this is happening but doesn't turn over?
Replace the starter.

Not sure how it could be ignition related if the starter is not turning over. I'd expect it to crank but not start.

I've on my 2nd starter, replaced about a year ago because I'd get some funky behavior with a click and no starter engagement. New starter fixed it.

ard

Correct. Why would the starter work when the engine is warm, though? Does the difference in hot vs. cold behavior indict the starter?

misterwaterfall

Starters are funny, they can kind of get "frozen" in the non working on position. That's why when they're going out, you can tap on them and they will work again. This may be why it works when you shut your engine cover.

audipwr1

Suggest starting with engine lid open

If doesn't start then whack starter with pry bar and try again

If yes that time replace starter if no bad ground

orthofrancis

Can you hear the solenoid click when you turn the key? Can you hear if the starter motor is whirring, but not engaging the engine gears.?

SOunds like a bad starter.

You could try it at night with the headlights on. If the lights dim a bit (not sure about if the Xenons do this - the old incandescents do), then the starter is drawing power, and it's the starter that's bad.

Jbarnes RS

I had the same problem. Replace the starter. Fixed mine.

ard

I just had the starter replaced with a new, not rebuilt Bosch unit. I have very few data points so far but each time I have started the engine when cold the starter has immediately engaged and turned over the engine and started it.

My independent did not want the old starter. Is there any $ value to the old starter or is it's best use as a door stop?

JB911

I sure didn't want to waste money on a starter-the culprit was the nuts holding the cable connectors. Cleaned and tightened them down. From the solenoid to the starter, if it's clicking and not turning, go down there, clean and torque the nuts. Even if it looks perfectly clean with no visible corrosion-
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-gt2-...ter-click.html

757driver

My 2010 had a similar issue, minus the engine temperature making a difference. The starter can be very finicky when it starts to go bad and behaves normally sometimes and is completely dead others. I started with a new clutch switch to no avail. Replaced the starter and good as new! Good Luck!

tgavem

JB911

I cleaned everything and as mentioned tightened all connections, and it's been working ever since, no more click click click

jackb911

I've been having the same problem but it became much worse. I installed a new clutch switch, whacked the solenoid - still "click, no start" except after multiple tries..So, I just removed the starter and dropped it off at the local starter/alternator rebuild shop, hopefully that will solve the problem.

hardrs

Ironic, but while I was following this thread I couldn't help worrying that it was going to happen to me! So, on Easter Sunday I woke up early full of anticipation for a spirited drive through the twisties in the RS and what do you know, click-click, but no engine turnover.
I have a friend who is a tech at the local Porsche Centre and I asked him to stop by to have a look yesterday. He confirmed that it was the starter motor and replacement is the best solution. Fortunately, the car is under (extended) warranty, so it should be relatively painless.

osu s2k