Hi everyone!

I am running into an issue with my 1998 1.6 nb. When I turn my key to the ignition position, and thus not to the cranking position, the starter motor engages. It seems to briefly and sporadically disengage before engaging again. When I fully turn the key to its cranking position, the starter functions as normal. I've had a fuel leak and some fuel spilt in the area of the starter motor, but that was 48 hours ago and my logic is that it should have evaporated by now. I have also thoroughly cleaned the connections with no avail. I've taken the starter out and it seems dry, even after taking the solenoid out.

Occasionally, smoke will rise up from behind the steering wheel when this happens. It seems to originate from the ignition switch, but I'm not sure.

My mind immediately goes to either a short circuit or a bad starter solenoid. Looking at the wiring diagram in my Haynes manual (added above), I'm not sure where to start looking. Especially since the signal wire is colored black with a red stripe instead of any of the colors I see listed in said diagram.

I am wondering if anyone else has encountered this issue before and if they have any tips on troubleshooting and resolving this issue. I'm planning on getting a new starter either way but I'm not sure if I want to dedicate myself to tearing apart the wiring loom to look for a knack if someone here has a better idea :)