Date: Wed, 21 Apr 1999 13:07:27 -0700 From: DHG <dhgoldnopsamoffice.pacbell.net> Subject: Help on intermittent starting problem???
I have a hot weather, intermittent starting problem in a 1989 9000CD (similar to that reported by about a dozen people last spring and summer). In hot weather, especially after heavy driving, the car sometimes won't start....then after 15-20 minutes it starts up like a champ. Based, in part, on advice from this ng I've now replaced the anti-theft device, run an extra grounding cable from the battery to the frame, sprayed the ignition with coolant, replaced the electronic part of the ignition, put in a new battery, and replaced the neutral safety switch (as part of a recall). It's been checked out by two mechanics and I've talked to a couple of more. Mostly they can't replicate the problem in the garage since its intermittent, so they can't diagnose it. SAAB headquarters just says take it to a dealer, although clearly there is some sort of design or material problem that they should know about. At this point I've also been able to rule out the anti-theft system, door and trunk locks, and seat belts as the source of the problem. (E.g., on one occasion I stopped after a long hot drive, turned off the ignition, and then without getting out of the car or doing anything else I turned the key and it wouldn't start. I opened the hood and on returning to the car after 20 minutes it started up right away.) Any suggestions? Anyone else having this problem now? Thanks. David