Dan12

Had the old slow or hard starting issue for a few years. Battery was new but I kept it on a charge. Started OK in garage but if I went for a short drive and tired to start it again it would always take a second try.

My car is an 08 and I was told the cable from the alternator to the starter was a newer type and not related to older issues. So I looked elsewhere.

I changed two things, the positive lug on the starter broke from a recent engine out service. (20K miles, I wanted the 2.5 clutch upgrade). I located a new solenoid and replaced it. However I don't think that was the starting problem. The positive cable connection to the firewall was my issue. Its a strange connection that allows the cable to rotate. A plastic tab locks the cable on a lug that passes through the firewall. Pull the tab outward and the cable will come off the lug.

The connection is a tubular sleeve with fine copper conductors in it. The copper can easily become oxidized and reduce conductivity. I cleaned them with steel wool, also the lug on the firewall. The copper contact points move and may have a slight spring force to keep them pressed against the lug. I took a dental tool and raised each contact so it would make a tighter connection. Then applied a contact cleaner and contact enhancer. It also prevents oxidation.
Car started instantly, full power vs extra cranking. Always starts on the first crank.

Many have had this problem but the solution was never clear. Hope it helps someone. Its embarrassing when it fails to start on the first try.

mikestyle

This is great information, are you talking about cleaning cable #4?

Dan12

yes cable 4 was the issue. You can see the odd connector in the drawing. Easy to remove clean and lubricate to prevent future issues.

Turboslut

will try this...

Brainz

How accessible is this fix with the engine in place?

Turboslut

all happens in the frunk...so very accesible ;-)

Brainz

Nice -- I'd looked at cable 14, not cable 4 -- that's much easier! Mine seems to have this issue some times: Fully charged battery, but occasionally/randomly starts like it's weak.

tguaturbo

Mine starts week from time to time. Will try this thanks!

Duckstu

I had a handy set of cleaning brushes nearby to do the inside of that #4 cable at the firewall end. Ones for cleaning gun barrels. I think it may have been the one for .38 / .357 / 9mm that worked best. Quick swipe or two,.. then sprayed it out with electronic cleaner.

I think I used some 2,000 grit on the post. 5 min job.

wbauer2

Hi all, dealing with this issue myself. Can someone please advise how to remove the connector for cable 4 (where it connects to the firewall)? I don't want to accidentally snap off any plastic pieces if I can help it!

Brainz

Take a look at the picture in this post: https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...l#post14678005

From memory, I think you push down on the red clip while pulling the connector away from the firewall.

BTW, that whole thread on the topic is pretty interesting. You may want to post your question there too.