Weird Starting Problem- Experts please help

[meetsethu]

Hi,

I have a weird starting problem with my Corolla (97 model, CE with 92 K miles). This problem below happens when I start my car and switch off immediately or when I reach my home or office and try to off the car.

The car won't just turn off. Even when the key is outside, it tries to start (the engines cranks but won't quite start). The car tries to start on its own for about 10 times or so and I have to insert the key and completely start it. When I turn the car off, the vehicle again tries to start by itself (but do not end up starting).

Another pattern I have noticed is that this happens when its really cold outside.

I have a new battery and recently changed rotor, distributor cap and spark plugs.

I hope I have described my problem clearly and apperciate your help.

Thanks
Seth.

[karazy]

Is the starter actually engaging, or is the engine just running on its own very roughly? If the latter, it is called dieseling, which in your case is probably caused by the need of a timing adjustment.

[meetsethu]

It is like the starter is actually engaging and trying to kick start the engine. I could say that because I can hear the noise which is similar to what I will get when I normally start the car.


Any thoughts on why?

Seth

[cheesep]

It could be your solenoid is sticking. There is a short post on this in this forum. I don't know how to give you the link but you can search this forum for jammed starter to find it. You'll probably find a whole lot of others with a similar problem if you just search for starter.

My starter tends to continue to be engaged in cold weather after I start it. I have to rev the engine briefly to make it disengage. The cold weather thing is a known problem with Corolla starters but that doesn't explain why yours keeps on trying after you shut off the ignition. Mine's a '98 by the way.

[toyotaspeed90]

actually my best bet is that the ignition switch is failing, causing a 12V signal to be sent to the starter....

[meetsethu]

I contacted a mechanic and he changed copper contacts (burned out!) in starting circuit and my car is not having that problem any more.

Thanks
Sethu