

The solenoid energizes, moving to close its contacts, while simultaneously sending the pinion gear to mesh with the flywheel ring gear. How Does The Starter Work?Ī small electric current travels to the starter solenoid when you turn the ignition switch. When activated, the solenoid closes the high current electric circuit and sends the car battery power to the starter motor. It consists of a DC (direct current) electric motor and the starter solenoid.

The car starter is essentially responsible for getting the engine up and running. The starter is an electric motor that spins the engine when you turn the ignition key. Let’s take a closer look at the starter: 1. If any of these issues describe your current vehicular troubles, you likely have a faulty starter, and a starter replacement needs to happen ASAP. It can be an internal relay built within the starter motor, or an external relay that is mounted outside the starter.ĭirt, overheating, a faulty connection, or greasy contacts can disrupt the operation of the starter relay, causing occasional starting failures that require a starter repair. The starter relay transmits power to the starter. If you turn the ignition switch and it doesn’t take the first time, but it does when you try again, there’s likely an issue with the starter relay. In this case, you need to see your mechanic about starter replacement services. The teeth on the flywheel may be stripped, or the starter motor’s pinion gear isn’t meshing with the flywheel. There may be a time when you turn the key and hear the starter activate, but the flywheel doesn’t engage with the starter motor.
Chevy trax 2015 starter replacement install#
It’s wise to have your car looked at by an auto repair expert as soon as possible in this case, as it could mean having to install a new starter. As a result, your car engine won’t crank. If ignored, this can also damage the engine flywheel ring gear.Ī whirring sound could also indicate that the starter isn’t engaging with the flywheel. When parts within the starter become worn or don’t engage, a grinding, whirring, clicking noise is often the first indicator.

Clicking, grinding, and whirring noises can be telltale signs of a bad starter. If you activate the ignition and hear a noise you weren’t expecting, listen carefully. If the starter remains engaged, it can cause severe damage to the whole starter system and the transmission flywheel, leaving you with an inoperable engine. If this happens, turn your car off immediately. However, if you hear a grinding noise once the engine has started, it could be that the main contacts in the starter solenoid have been welded in the closed position, warranting a starter repair. The starting circuit should open once the engine has cranked and the key released. Note that this can also be a symptom of a dead battery or failing alternator, so it’s best to have a mechanic inspect all the major electrical components. The most likely reason for this is the starter relay or motor has burned out. The most common symptom of a bad starter is nothing happening when you turn the key. There are several signs of a failing starter motor.
