What is the Starter all about?

A starter is an electrical motor that is connected to the battery. The job of 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 of starter is done. If the starter goes bad, the engine will not crank properly when you turn the ignition key on or may not crank at all.

Keep in mind:

The symptoms of a faulty starter are similar to that of a dead battery. Without the power from the battery, the starter cannot get the engine in motion. In order 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.

How it's done:

• Inspect the starter and ignition switch.
• Remove and replace starter if it has failed.
• Test for power going to starter.
• Inspect the starter relay, grounds, supply cables and battery.

Our recommendation:

During regular maintenance and checkups, your starter should be inspected. If your vehicle ever has trouble turning on, you may have a problem with your starter, and you should schedule an inspection.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Starter?

• Car does not start or starts intermittently (when turning the ignition key).
• Single loud click but engine does not start.
• Starter operation is noisy.

How important is this service?

The starter is a very strong electrical motor that is in charge of setting your engine’s various components in motion. When you turn your key to ignite the vehicle, the battery sends power to the starter, and the starter’s motor begins to operate. This motor then turns the crankshaft, and moves the pistons and other components of the engine, which allows all the parts to move when the ignition system ignites the fuel.

When the starter fails, the engine’s components will not be put in motion, and the engine won’t work. As a result, the car won’t turn on. If your starter is malfunctioning, you’ll likely hear a clicking noise as the ignition system does its job, but since the engine’s pieces are stationary, the engine will never catch, and your vehicle won’t turn on.