Help... starter wont shut off.

[grrman13b]

Twice this month I've went to start my car and my starter would just keep running. Its happened after I've driven the car for about 20 minutes, stoped to check the mail and restart. The temperature has been around 30-35 deg. each time too. I could turn the key off and on and it would keep running as though I was still holding the key in start. Is there a mechanical linkage in the steering column that could have possibly gotten stuck those couple of times? Or do I have a short that needs to be addressed. When it hangs up it would eventually stop after about 15-20 seconds. I know Fords have a history of ignition switch problems... is this one of them?

 

[tomst9]

sounds to me like your starter solenoid is sticking. Fords are known for them being bad too. They cost around $7.50 at an auto parts store.

 

[banditmwp]

yeah, check the solenoid, or it could be a faulty switch. they're not too badly priced, either

 

[cardudeusa]

Definatley sounds like the solenoid. Easy fix.

 

[HISSIN50]

if you put a test light on the wire that slides onto the stud on the solenoid when this happens, and it is showing 12 volts, this suggests the ignition switch. if its dead, bad solenoid.
i would bet solenoid too. fix it fast.
good luck.