i've been having this problem since it first started getting cold. my 940 turbo wagon won't start usually when it's under 25 degrees out. turn the key, all the electronics go on: lights, radio, power windows... everything works. i hear a click coming somewhere in the back of the car and from the radio (or maybe a relay)and that's it. nothing. i then get my girlfriends car and jump it and it's fine. runs.

i've searched around and there seems to be several ideas on what's could be wrong. but i have seen any on my problem in specific. anyone have any ideas?

 

Clean the battery posts. Remember to use jumper to keep the radio and clock connected to power.

 

It's the battery or posts... Just because the lights come on doesn't mean that you are getting enough juice-if it starts with a jump from another car, it's that.

 

thanks for the replies. happened again this morning, though this time i was unable to get it jumped. i tried to jumping it a few times over a 10 minute period.i did notice though (excuse me since i'm not at all very knowledgeable about cars) that there seemed to be a small amount ofantifreeze pooled on a small ledge-part of the engine, up front right behind some belts.guessing this isn't good either. didn't have much time to investigate cos i had to get to work and it was like 3 degrees outside.

 

The leak is most likely from the water pump seal... I still think that it's the battery that doesn't have enough power in the cold to start the car.

 

Ok, my problem is definately not the battery. Got it checked the other day at an Autozone. They said that it was fine.

 

ok past couple days have been hovering under freezing but not bone chillingly cold like the days the car won't start at all. the past couple days, when i turn the key i get nothing for about 3 seconds then it all of a sudden starts. Long pause then fires up. Just mentioning this new info in case anyone has anymore ideas.

 

I tend to agree with the other posts - sounds like a weak battery or poor battery/cable connections. This new development - a delay or nothing- maybe your ignition key switch is bad in the start position but makes contact for radio etc. Any other ideas out there guys/girls?

 

Battery terminals need cleaning with a wire brush they sell for that, also the ground cable that goes from the neg post to the car frame should be removed and everything wire brushed, reconnect and try again.
If no go, its probably the connectors at the starter need cleaning and re-tightening.

 

check cold starter injector and the thermal time switch