I have a '96 Mazda Cronos and it has a weird problem with the starter. Most of the time when you turn the key it clicks. You have to turn it a few time bfore the engine will turn over. When it does turn over it starts slowly. When it rains it won't turn over at all. Every once in a while it won't click at all. It will click but it won't turn over. Have any ideas?

Simply stated, turning the ignition switch to the start position closes a relay which then supplies 12V to the starter solenoid. This energizes the solenoid which then mechanically causes the starter gear to engage the flywheel gear and at the same time applies 12V to the starter motor from the battery.

Here are some of the things that can cause the problem you're having:

Poor electrical connection between the battery posts and cables.

Weak battery.

Poor electrical connection between the positive battery cable and the starter solenoid.

Defective starter solenoid

Defective starter motor.

Defective relay that supplies voltage to the solenoid.

Defective ignition switch.

Poor electrical connection to any of the above.


Start by cleaning the battery posts and terminals and take it from there. (Make sure their mating surfaces are shiny clean and the connections are tight.)


A good mechanic should be able to diagnose things fairly quickly, and might be your best option if you don't have the experience to deal with more in-depth troubleshooting should it be necessary.