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Car's Starter Common Problem

Your vehicle's starter is responsible for turning over your engine. It
starts the process through which fuel and air are brought into the
cylinders for compression and ignition. Like all car parts, this
component can eventually fail and need to be replaced. The challenge is
identifying whether the starter is truly the root cause of a no-start
situation. A lot of trained mechanics mistakenly recommend replacing
this part when doing so is unnecessary.



In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons your engine may
refuse to turn over. You'll discover the problem can be related to
several factors that have little to do with your starter. We'll then
take a look at issues that specifically involve this component before
offering a few helpful suggestions for replacing it.



Other Factors That Can Cause A No-Start Problem



Your engine is a complex assembly that involves myriad moving parts.
Some of these parts can fail, causing a no-start problem. Moreover, its
operation is dependent on having the right blend of air and fuel,
sufficient compression, and proper ignition timing.



If you're unable to crank the engine, check the battery to make sure it
can provide sufficient voltage. Otherwise, it will be unable to engage
the starter. If the battery is fine, test the solenoid. This can be done
by circumventing the part and checking whether the starter engages
properly. If it does, the issue is likely with the solenoid.



If you're able to crank the assembly, yet are unable to start it, the
battery may still be at fault. As above, test the voltage output. Also,
take a look at the poles to make sure they are clean of corrosion. Next,
test the starter to check for mechanical issues that might be
preventing it from drawing sufficient amperage.



A quick note about the solenoid: it is a common cause of no-start
issues. It sends an electrical current from the battery to your starter.
If it fails for any reason, it must be replaced; it cannot be repaired.



Starter-Related Issues



This component is only engaged when starting your engine. Once the
engine turns over, the part disengages, stops spinning, and comes to a
rest. During the short time it is engaged, however, it endures
considerable strain.



When you turn the key in the ignition, a significant volume of amperage
is drawn from your battery to the solenoid. This electrical current then
travels to the starter, which begins spinning to crank the engine. Some
drivers, in an attempt to turn the assembly over, will continue
cranking it without giving the component a rest. This produces enormous
heat, which can result in damage.



In some cases, the brushes or bushings can become worn prematurely. In
other cases, the teeth on the component's flywheel might be damaged,
which makes it difficult for the part to turn the engine over. If you
notice the assembly turning over partially, but it stubbornly refuses to
start, it's likely the starter is working properly, but the teeth of
the flywheel are broken.



Tips For Replacing The Component



Before installing a replacement, make sure it offers the same capacity
as the old unit. Don't assume it does simply because it fits your
vehicle. Check the power ratings.



Also, consider replacing the solenoid at the same time you replace the
starter. It is a wearable component, so replacing it minimizes the
chances of a no-start problem in the future.



Now is also an ideal time to invest in new battery connecting cables.
Just make sure the replacement cables are able to handle the amperage
delivered from the battery to the solenoid.



Your vehicle's starter is one of the least discussed components under
the hood. Yet it plays a critical role in turning your engine over
whenever you start your car. When the time comes to replace it, do so
with an OEM-certified unit that provides reliable performance and peace
of mind.