Starter takes 3+ tries...

[ethirdy]

cap and rotor perhaps? that sounds like the issue i had... that and/or you need a new starter

But why does banging the starter help, and why does the starter spark?

[sticksdaman]

cap and rotor perhaps? that sounds like the issue i had... that and/or you need a new starter

[ethirdy]

Every time I start the car, with rare exceptions, it takes two to three tries to start the car. I turn the key, the starter engages, turns the flywheel for a few seconds, then just stops. Almost like I let go of the key. After 2-3 tries, it usually holds long enough and starts the car.

Rarely, the car will start first try. Then sometimes, I have to either push start it and jump the clutch, or get out and bang on the starter. When I bang on it, I usually see a small spark or two - is there an exterior ground on the starter between the starter itself and the solenoid?

I had a bad starter (or solenoid) once, it would get heatsoaked and wouldn't work unless the car was sitting for an extended period of time (overnight, etc) This is a completely different issue, but it's getting frustrating.