I've read the archives, but still can't find the answer for sure. Yesterday I crunk my car up and there was a lagging kind of slow draw to the crank. After I got gas the car would not crank back up. I took the battery out and tested it....fine. The lights come on, radio, etc. When I turn the ignition its noting but a "click......click". Just 2 times. I am guessing it is the starter. My Acura is a 1998 CL...I've changed the Alternator myself....wondering if I can do this as well. Also...what is hitting it with a hammer going to do? Thanks in advance.

 

Starter is usually OK, but the copper contacts in the solenoid (big relay) wear out and will not carry enough current to drive the starter. So instead of starting you hear a click, click, as you try to engage the starter, or it may turn over slowly due to inadequate starter current.

If you're handy w/ a soldering iron (100 watt), you can replace the copper contacts in the solenoid. Search for "sherco auto" to find the contacts.

Starter is easy to access on a 2.2CL, but from what I've read not so easy on a 3.0CL. A shop manual is handy to guide either one.

good luck

 

PS, Read "Starter Help" sticky under 1st Generation TL forum for more info. Starters are all fundamentally same on Honda/Acuras.

good luck