How to Fix a Car with a Bad Starter Motor: A Step-by-Step Guide
There’s nothing more frustrating than getting into your car, turning the key, and hearing that dreaded clicking noise or nothing at all. This is often a sign that your starter motor is having issues. I’ve been there, and I know how inconvenient it can be, especially if you’re in a hurry or far from a mechanic. Through my own experiences with car troubles, I’ve learned how to diagnose and fix a bad starter motor. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps I take to get my car back on the road when faced with a faulty starter motor, all from my own perspective.
Fletcher Jones Motorcars Service Center
3300 Jamboree Rd, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA
1. Diagnosing the Issue
The first thing I always do when my car isn’t starting is to check for any obvious signs that could point to a bad starter motor. The clicking noise is often the first clue. This sound happens when the starter gear doesn’t engage with the flywheel correctly. If I turn the key and hear a single click, it usually means the starter motor is trying to engage, but there’s a problem. If the car does nothing at all and the lights stay on, it could indicate a dead battery, so I always make sure to rule that out first.
Once I confirm it’s not the battery, I check the electrical connections to the starter motor. Loose or corroded wires can sometimes cause the starter motor to fail. In my case, I had to clean the battery terminals once because corrosion had built up. Once cleaned, the starter motor worked perfectly again. If the wires are intact, I move on to the next step: testing the starter motor itself.
One Stop Motors, Inc.
1076 W 9th St, Upland, CA 91786, USA
2. Testing the Starter Motor
If I suspect the starter motor is bad, the next thing I do is test it. Sometimes, I’ll tap the starter motor lightly with a hammer or a wrench to see if it starts working again. This method might sound unconventional, but in many cases, the motor has become stuck due to wear or lack of lubrication. I’ve had success with this technique a few times, where the motor would engage just enough to turn over the engine. However, this is only a temporary solution, and I always know that replacing the starter motor is eventually necessary.
If tapping doesn’t work, I check the starter relay and fuses. If a fuse is blown or the relay is faulty, the current won’t reach the starter motor. I refer to the car’s manual to locate the starter relay and fuse. Once I’ve identified the relay, I check for any signs of damage and replace it if needed. I’ve had situations where replacing a blown fuse was all it took to fix the problem. If none of these steps solve the issue, it’s time to remove and replace the starter motor.
3. Preparing for the Replacement
Replacing a starter motor may seem daunting at first, but I’ve found that with a little patience and the right tools, it’s definitely manageable. Before I get started, I always make sure I have the following tools on hand: a socket wrench, a new starter motor (which I’ve already purchased), safety gloves, a jack, and a jack stand. I also disconnect the negative terminal on the battery to prevent any electrical issues while working on the car.
Once I have everything ready, I lift the car using the jack and secure it with the jack stand. It’s crucial to ensure the car is stable before getting underneath it. I’ve made the mistake of skipping this step before, and trust me, it’s not worth the risk. After securing the car, I locate the starter motor, which is typically located near the engine block. In most vehicles, it’s on the passenger side or close to the bottom of the engine, so I usually get under the car and find it easily.
4. Removing the Faulty Starter Motor
With the car safely lifted, I start by disconnecting the wires that lead to the starter motor. There are typically two main connections: a large wire from the battery and a small wire connected to the solenoid. I use my socket wrench to carefully remove these connections. Once the wires are disconnected, I unbolt the starter motor from its mount. There are usually two or three bolts that hold the starter motor in place. I make sure to keep track of the bolts and store them somewhere safe, as I’ll need them when installing the new motor.
At this point, I can gently remove the old starter motor. Depending on the model of the car, the motor might be a bit heavy, so I ensure that I’m supporting it properly as I pull it free. It’s always a good idea to compare the old motor with the new one to ensure they’re the same size and shape before proceeding with the installation. I’ve found that sometimes even minor differences in parts can lead to issues, so I double-check before moving forward.
5. Installing the New Starter Motor
Now comes the exciting part: installing the new starter motor. I carefully place the new motor into the same position as the old one, aligning it with the mounting holes. Once it’s in place, I bolt it securely into position. It’s essential to tighten the bolts properly without overdoing it. I’ve learned that too much torque can cause damage to the motor or its housing, so I always use a torque wrench to ensure the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
After the motor is bolted into place, I reconnect the electrical wires. I first attach the large battery cable to the starter, followed by the small wire connected to the solenoid. Again, I make sure these connections are secure to prevent any issues down the line. With everything reconnected, I lower the car back to the ground and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
6. Testing the New Starter Motor
Before I call it a day, I turn the key and test the new starter motor. If everything is working as it should, the engine should start without issue. I’ve found that it’s always a good idea to listen closely to the sound of the engine starting. A properly functioning starter motor should engage smoothly, without any grinding or strange noises. If the engine starts up without hesitation, then I know that the installation was successful. If for any reason the engine doesn’t start or there’s an unusual noise, I troubleshoot the electrical connections or check the motor for proper installation.
After confirming the starter motor works, I clean up the area and make sure everything is in order. The entire process typically takes me a few hours, but it’s one of those repairs that’s completely worth it if you want to avoid waiting for a tow truck or an expensive mechanic’s bill.
If you ever find yourself needing professional help or towing services, I recommend checking out Rescue & Towing for assistance, as they offer expert help in emergency situations.
