I agree with the posters that suggest installing the bb 12v power kit. Another thing to check is the car battery. My bb was acting up, it turned out the car battery (which started the car ok) was weak, once a new battery was installed no problem with the bb. Now fast forward 7 yrs - my bb classic needed repairs, so I sent it in - I talked to a bb tec - and decided to replace the unit with the newer bb vantage. They offer a great deal, about 1/2 price compared to retail - I am a fulltimer, my bb get a lot of use and a new unit (with a 3 yr warranty) is peace of mind.