98 Corolla is silent when trying to start

[defrancia]

'98 Corolla LE won't start each time. When I turn the key there is only silence and no noises or clicks. The dash lights all come on, radio, etc. Then I turn the key back and try again and it starts.
Replaced the battery but the problem persists. Any ideas on what is the cause?

[fishexpo101]

When you turned the key the first time around - did the lights dim slightly as you turned it to start?
Does it always do this for the first start? After you move the key back and try again, it always starts?
Does your car have a factory or aftermarket alarm system?

Hard to say for sure without some additional information - but it seems that you have a bad ignition cylinder (not making contact the first time around). This is especially true if you turn the key and nothing happens (no dimming of lights, no click, no buzzing, etc.) and you do not have a factory/aftermarket alarm system.

If it always fails on the first start - try jiggling the key in the ignition, then starting it - see if that makes it want to start. Ignition cylinder is not too expensive, there are a couple of DIY guides on this forum and others that explain how to change it.

[pdq]

Next time try leaving the door open and listen for a single click when you turn the key the first time. If so, that's your starter.

When my starter began going out, the first turn of the key would get a single click, and the second time, the starter would engage and start the car.