Top Signs That Your Car Starter Could be in Trouble

 It is normal to assume that a car not starting is due to a dead battery. That may be the case in some cases, but it is also possible that the issue is with the vehicle's starter. How can you tell if the problem is with the starter or another electrical component? Apart from being unable to start your engine, here are some warning signs that your vehicle's starter might be malfunctioning.

                       

                                                                   

1. The engine does not start.

When you turn your key and nothing happens, this is the most common sign that you have a problem with your starter. This is often triggered by a burned-out starter solenoid or motor, or by an electrical problem. This problem, however, could also be caused by a dead battery or a damaged engine. If this happens, you'll need to call a technician to check the starter, ignition system, and other electrical parts, as it may be a sign of a variety of problems. In the worst-case scenario, you might need to replace your engine with a new one. But you can always look for the used engines for sale to save your money.

2. The starter engages but the motor does not turn.

When you turn the ignition key, you can hear the starter activate but not the motor crank over. Starter problems may also be mechanical in nature. In this case, the issue could be caused by the gears attached to the flywheel. In this scenario, a licensed mechanic will replace the starter.

3. Grinding noise while attempting to start the engine

This warning sign, like the one mentioned above, often appears when the gears that link the starter to the flywheel are worn out. However, grinding may also occur inside the starter motor. In both the case, it's something that can't be fixed on the car. If you find this symptom, the next logical move is to contact a mechanic.

4. Smell or see smoke when starting the motor

The starter is an electrically driven mechanical machine. Often the starter overheats due to the continued supply of power to the starter, or the starter motor does not shut off after the car's engine has ignited. If this happens, you can most likely see or smell smoke coming from under the engine.

 

What Happens If You Don’t Repair a Failing Starter?

 

Numerous things can go wrong if you do not take out the time to get your starter repaired or replaced.  The most prominent possibilities include but are not confined to:

 

·         Electrical system damage

·      Dim lighting

·      Engine or Transmission Damage

·      Battery drainage

·      The vehicle refuses to start

 

Along with damaging your other systems and leading to more expensive repairs, starter failure can damage the engine that leaves you stranded. The last thing you want is to find yourself in the middle of nowhere with a non-starting car with no way to get it to a garage. This can also happen if you drive a luxurious car. In such a situation you can look for a used Audi engine, used Chevy engine, used BMW engine used a Ford engine or any other branded engine instead of buying a new engine without burning your pocket. But try to take steps early on to correct the problem and have professional help.

 

The Bottom Line

Regardless of what you do, do not wait for your car starter to fail. Bring your vehicle in as soon as possible to minimize damage and get your car back up and running.