Protege5 starting problems

[neddogg81]

My manual Protege5 has not been starting lately. It has a black "factory" Mazda Security System box in it under the dash. When I turn the key with the clutch in the Security system box will make a loud buzzing sound. Some days it will start right up. Others the box will just buzz no matter how long I hold the key. Should I replace the Security system box or is there a problem somewhere else that I should be looking at? I am aware of the "secret button" and that does not seem to affect it starting or not.

Thanks,

 

[The_big_dill]

If the security light is blinking or on, then your alarm is armed.

Try unlocking and locking the car with the key fob outside the car and watch the security light, how does it react?

My friend had a whole lot of issues with his security system, so he unplugged it all together.

If your trouble starting persists after it is unplugged, then it may not be the alarm.

 

[neddogg81]

The security light reacts normally. Blinking when locked and off when unlocked.

If i unplug the security system box it still does not start. Do i need to do something with the wires i unplugged from the security system box or should it start? All i get with the security system box unplugged is a click behind the glove box.

 

[The_big_dill]

Then its not your security system.

I have seen starting problems on these cars multiple times, I will help you get through this.

First thing is first. Make sure your battery and terminals are in check. That means, no corrosion, tight terminals and battery does NOT short out when you crank. To check this, put the multimeter across the battery and when you crank, see if your battery drops below 11V. If so, then it may be your battery.

Although the above is less likely than other symptoms, I would start with that.

Once you have checked that I will tell you what you need to do next.

 

[neddogg81]

Cleaned the terminals thoroughly. Battery tests at 12.19 during crank. I had a few random starts but now back to not starting.

 

[neddogg81]

After checking the battery I started doing the tests that this site recommends. http://easyautodiagnostics.com/misc-index/starter-motor-on-car-tests-2

I had to wiggle the wire on the solenoid to get my multimeter contact with it. This must have been the problem because now I have had about 25 perfect starts. Also I tried to start it without the Security box hooked up and nothing so I'm not sure if that can be eliminated or not.

Anyway so far so good. I will keep you posted if anything changes.

 

[The_big_dill]

I was going to say, the next step is to check the clutch switch or the starter solenoid connector which corroded all the time.