I'm new to the site, but have had my 1996 3.2 TL for about a year now. It's my first car and I am hopelessly in love. I haven't had any problems with it until recently it wouldn't start on the first keyturn. It takes usually about 10-15 clicks before it will start. I looked at the battery and cables and noticed lots of corrosion on rust. I bought new connectors for the terminals and hopefully that will fix my beloved tl. Has anyone else had this problem?

 

yes, usually its the starter* mine does it about half the time. ill just live with it til it needs to be replaced.

 

I replaced the terminals and am still having the same problem


And I've also heard that getting the starter fixed is pretty expensive

has anyone done it themselves?

 

Your starter is probably on its last legs. Expect to pay about $800.00 to have it replaced.

 

YES its pretty expensive to change starter on 3.2 cause you have to remove the left front axle to get to the starter. Make sure you get a GOOD rebuilt starter (all starters are rebuilts). And its def a starter problem. It will work until the contacts are worn out. I waited to change mine until I got stuck for 2hrs. Peace of mind or Wait but you def have to change it sooner or later.

 

damn. I have the same issue. Only does it sometimes though.

 

I just changed mine out last week.Mine was clicking for about 6 mos. then finally went out completely.
It can be done without taking out the axle.I removed the battery tray and alternator.It also helps to take off the driver side tire to help see what you are doing.There are 2 bolts and 2 elec. connections holding the starter on and the bolt in the back IS a RPITA!!!
You may not need to buy a starter.It will most likely only be the copper contacts that need replacing.I got mine from a local starter repair shop for $6

 

The starter is a common problem for our cars.

 

All for worn out contacts!!