The starter drive (also called bendix) is not dis-engaging after the key start position is released. Probably due to dust/grime build-up, gear sticking to flywheel, or just going bad.
I'd check two things: I don't remember what year Ford changed over, but if yours still has the starter solenoid on the fender, make sure you haven't crossed the small wires. If the solenoid is on the starter, are you certain that you've wired the starter right? There are a couple small wires that connect to the starter,if you connect them wrong it could the cause problems you describe. If you're CERTAIN that the starter and/or solenoid are connected properly, start looking seriously at the ignition switch.
Solenoid could be installed incorrectly. Could be electrical connection on the solenoid. Did you re-connect the battery? Could be a bad starter motor...or a stuck starter motor. Sometimes a light tap or two on the starter motor (not the solenoid) with a hammer will free it up.
usually this means that your solenoid needs to be changed
If you can hear your starter motor turning but not the engine you have some teeth missing on the ring gear. If you can hear nothing, not even the starter motor solenoid clicking into place, you have a connection problem between ignition switch and starter motor.
Check all wires for loose or corroded fittings. A loose or corroded connection can work one day and not the next. My first guess would be the wire to the starter solenoid is loose.
Could beAlso check the starter solenoid and loose or corroded battery cablesand starter
If your '99 Maxima will not start even after you have changed the starter, you might have a dead battery or a bad starter solenoid. You could also have an empty gas tank.
Either your starter solenoid, if not check the neutral safety or clutch safety switch.
Either the ignition switch is bad, or the solenoid itself. I just changed them both. Also put in a new battery and changed the Neutral safety switch. I am getting power to the "boot" connection on the relay selinoid when the ignition is turned on. Anyone have any idea where to go next?? ANSWER.what kind of car. some have 2 selinoids on them . one on ths starter and one on the fenderwell.
try the neutral safety switch on lower sreering column
Bad battery, bad solenoid, bad cables.
It "CAN", but why would you want to? The contacts in the solenoid wear at about the same rate as everything else inside the starter. If the solenoid is bad you'll be better off just replacing the whole thing because the brushes or bushings will be going next then you'll get to remove/replace the starter again.