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If a car doesn’t start, it is normally linked to a dead battery. But this isn’t usually the case. A bad starter can cause the car not to start. For the vehicle to move, it should have a successful operation of the starter. The starter on today’s vehicles is connected in the rear of the motor, where the gear on the starter aligns with the car’s flywheel to commence the ignition process. The moment your car engine starts to turn over, fuel is introduced to the combustion chamber and is ignited thanks to the ignition system is activated. When this process functions right, your engine comes to life. But when the starter starts to wear out or break, it will affect how you drive your car. To identify a bad starter, here are some of its symptoms.



Summary of Contents

5 Most Common Symptoms of a Bad Starter

Sometimes, you might turn the ignition switch and hear the starter activate but will not hear the motor crank over. Problems with the starter are at times mechanical in nature. In such a scenario, the issue may be as a result of gears linked to the flywheel. This might mean that the gear has stripped or become dislodged against the flywheel. In such a condition, you will need a professional mechanic to replace the starter.

This is the most common sign that shows itself when your starter isn’t working. It is normally caused by the starter solenoid or motor that has burnt out or has electrical problems.

The starter is a mechanical system that is powered by electricity. At times, the starter will overheat due to continued power being supplied to the starter will not shut off after the vehicle’s engine has been ignited. When this takes place, you will likely see smoke or smell smoke coming from below the engine. The issue may be brought about by a short circuit, a blown fuse or might be as a result of an issue with the ignition switch. If you notice such a problem, you should consult an expert mechanic to repair or replace the starter.

When the gears that are linking the starter to the flywheel are worn out, you will hear this noise. Nevertheless, grinding may as well take place inside the starter motor. When you see such a case, you should call or visit a professional mechanic right away as it can damage the car’s flywheel which is costly. You can also take help of a obd2 scanner!


The solenoid transmits electrical current from the battery to the starter motor when you turn the key in your car’s ignition and also pushes the starter drive into the flywheel to enable cranking. The starter can’t function without the solenoid. If you turn the key to the crank position and noting takes place, try jiggling the transmission gear shift lever first. In case the engine fails to crank, there might be an issue with the solenoid.

Conclusion
When a starter wears out, there are two usual parts in it that fail and include the starter motor and solenoid. Although these parts can be repaired, most of the manufacturers recommend a replacement of the entire equipment. A bad starter usually manifests itself in symptoms such as smoke, vehicle failing to start, grinding noises, or freewheeling. Visit a professional mechanic to repair and replace the starter if you note these signs.

Kevin Nicholas is an automotive technician who is a genius at software and hardware-related issues. He manually tested more than a hundred OBD scanners and gave his honest opinion on whether the device was worth the money or not. His in-depth OBD review articles help people choose the right product, whether it is a European, American, or Asian vehicle. He completed his Automotive Specialized Training Course at Universal Technical Institute and has more than 15 years of experience in the field.

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