My 1996 Legacy 2.2L Wagon (Auto) has lately developed a problem with starting. When I turn the key it clicks. When I turn it on and off rapidly, it starts. It is getting worse by the day. The battery appears to be OK. I am suspecting the starter and would like to replace it myself with an aftermarket one to save a few dollars.

 

Is it something that can be done without raising the car or getting underneath? Can anyone point to the instructions as the haynes I have makes it sound as not so simple?

Are there any aftermarket ones that are good and not expensive?

 

I appreciate any help that you can provide. Thanks in advance.

Do a search here, this was talked about a few months ago. Easy Job, no reason to go under the car. 1 bolt on top, 14mm. 1 nut on the bottom 17mm and the two wires. Make sure you disconnect the battery before you start. If you want a cheap used starter, I have a couple good ones $5 +shipping.

My 94 did the same thing last week, the ground terminal on the battery was ugly, I cleaned it up and the problem was gone. I had a spare starter in my hand, ready to swap it in, then I checked the connections on the battery and the starter. The battery terminal looked ok from the outside but there was alot of corosion once I pulled the connecter off.

Betcha' it's nothing more than worn contacts inside the starter. It's a common problem. Just a coupla' bucks to replace--compare that to the cost of a new or rebuilt unit! Not too hard to do either. Search here on the board as lmdew suggests. And by all means do what blackbart says and check/clean all your electrical connections.

The current starter is 9 years old so thought might as well replace. I got a good deal on a reman starter from the dealer. Tried to fix it, but the car too hot. Was in a rush. Took it to the corner gas station guy who charged just 50 for labor! The car starts fine now. It worked out well.

Thanks everyone for your suggestions!!