Starter motor faults and replacement tips

Modern internal combustion car engines are able to keep running on their own once they are started. However, to start and begin running, these engines need a small helping hand, and this is where the starter motor performs its function. Given the importance of this part, it is worth knowing some details about its possible faults and the aspects to consider when replacing it.

Photo of the starter motor taken from the autodoc.es website

As we have already mentioned, the car engine cannot start running without the help of the starter motor, so if it stops working completely, the car will not be able to start, which raises repair costs and prevents the car from running immediately. To avoid this inconvenience, it is advisable to pay attention to a series of symptoms that may warn of faults in the starter motor.

One easily detectable symptom is difficulty starting the engine. If the engine does not start first time, the best option is to take the car to a workshop so they can inspect the starter motor and check its condition. The difficulties may become more noticeable in cold weather, so it is better to check the condition of the part before the cold season arrives.

Another symptom related to a malfunctioning starter motor may be certain noises. If a strange sound is heard when turning the key to start the engine, it may indicate that the first signs of a starter motor failure are appearing. In addition, if a noise coming from the engine area is heard during the first few seconds after starting, it is also advisable to check the starter motor, as this may indicate a problem with the part.

The starter motor needs a large amount of energy to work, which is why, when it does not work properly, the cause is sometimes not a problem with the part itself, but may be related to the energy it receives. This can be due to connection problems or battery problems. Therefore, before replacing this part directly, it is necessary to check the operation of the circuit.

On other occasions, the only thing preventing the starter motor from doing its job properly is accumulated dirt; in that case, simply cleaning the part thoroughly will allow it to keep working.

Another option in the event of a fault is to replace only the damaged part of the motor; however, this can take too much time and effort, and in most cases it is preferable to replace the complete starter motor.

To replace the part, the steps will vary considerably from one car model to another. However, in general terms, the following steps must be followed:

1. Locate the starter motor and disconnect all power.
2. Remove the mountings that secure the part and take out the motor.
3. Install the new part and secure it with its mountings.
4. Reconnect the power and check that it works.