Mazda Protege 1999 Starting troubles

[Protege_19]

I have been having problems with my protege during start-up in that sometimes when I turn the key the engine will not start... there is power to the dashboard but no clicking sound or engine turn over.

The funny part is what I have been doing to start is shifting my steering column with the key in the ignition. The last few months (winter) it seems a little harder to start. Any suggestions? Sometimes just resetting the key will start it as well but the majority of the time I insert key, turn ignition, and drop/raise steering column to start engine.

Thanks.

Ian

[dtatham]

The movement of the steering column is probably just a coincidence. You probably have a weak battery. Take it to an auto parts store and have them do a battery check to see if you're putting out proper amps. Check your water in your battery and make sure your cables are clean.

[Protege_19]

Thanks for the reply. I have cleaned the battery terminals on several occasions and the battery is less than two years old. I'll give it another shot this week and let you know.

[Beerizfood]

standard or auto trans?

[XelderX]

Take the covers of the steering column so you can see the wires from the ignition switch. Check for any loose wires or shorts. A little less likely but you might also want to check the starter solenoid switch wire is not loose on the solenoid.