A starter is an electrical motor that is connected to the battery. The job оf a starter is to set the engine (pistons, crankshaft, etc.) in motion when you turn the ignition switch on. Once the engine starts and is in motion, the job оf starter is done. If the starter goes bad, the engine will not crank properly when you turn the ignition key in or may not crank at all.
The symptoms оf a faulty starter are like that оf a dead battery. Without the power from the battery, the starter cannot get the engine in motion. To determine if the problem is the battery or starter, test the lights, radio, and horn. If they do not work, a dead battery is likely. If they work, it is more likely a problem with the starter. Since the starter is an electrical motor, it will eventually fail and require replacement during its service life. Some other signs of a failing starter include:
● Loud clicking: Oftentimes, the first sign of starter trouble will be a loud click or series of clicks that occurs when the key is turned. This is the sound of the starter motor actuating but not spinning. It may or may not be properly connecting with the flywheel.
● Grinding noises that occur while trying to start your car could be attributed to the starter motor. There are two reasons they may occur. The first would be that the mounting bolts have come loose, causing there to be poor alignment of the pinion gear and flywheel. Secondly, one of these gears may have lost a tooth or teeth, resulting in the grinding noise.
● Buzzing: If all you hear is a buzzing noise when you try to start your vehicle, you’re likely listening to the sound of electricity traveling to the starter motor but not enough to get it to start. This is often the result of poor electrical connections and may not be a starter motor issue.
● Intermittent engine cranking means that the car may start to crank, then stop, requiring you to turn the key in the ignition again.
Starter Repair Services In Blaine Minnesota
It is important to take care of starter problems as soon as they begin to happen. Putting them off to repair later may end up leaving you stranded. If you need starter repair in the Twin Cities greater metro area, get in touch with the ASE-certified mechanics at Clark Automotive. We provide full service auto maintenance and repair for most makes and models of vehicles. Give us a call today at (763) 784-7944 or email info@clarkautomotiveblaine.com to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving our friends and neighbors with affordable, honest service!
