2001 won't go into "ready" mode immediately

Almost every time I get into to start it, the car is slow to get into ready mode. I'll turn the key to the "on" position, but it almost acts like it needs to charge up or something. So I sit there with the key in "on" position, and eventually it starts. If I turn it to "start" and hold it there, this does not appear to help.

After anywhere from 20 seconds to 3 minutes, it will power up (I know because the radio comes on when it's actually ready). Then it starts and runs like a champ.

It never stalls, and everything else on the car works fine. And when I first got the car (at about 50k miles), this didn't happen.

The only other issue I've ever had was about 10k miles ago - the check engine ! light came on, but then it went off before I could get to a dealership, and it never came back.

It sounds like a battery issue to me, but upon a quick conversation with the dealership by phone, that didn't come up, and they sounded a little puzzled. So I have no idea.

Thanks for any ideas you guys have.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(walkinghat @ Mar 7 2007, 06:05 PM) [snapback]401993[/snapback]</div>

I ordered a new 12V from the dealer locally - they expect it in about 2 weeks from now. Yes, it took 6 weeks total, to get a simple battery.

Yes, I do get a clicking sound as it tries to charge up, and it continues to act as if it is a dull 12V. Panel lights work, but only as if they have to charge first. Put the key in, turn to "on," then wait until the power seems availabel (radio comes on) then I start it. Usually that works. VERY frustraing, but perhaps to be solved soon.

Amazing. But I'll update as I can.