We’ve all been there – you’re ready to head out, you turn the key or push the button, and your car won’t start. It’s frustrating and inconvenient, especially when you're not sure what's wrong. If your vehicle is having trouble starting, it’s important to know the signs that point to a bad starter so you can avoid being stranded and get it fixed before things get worse.
What Does the Starter Do?
The starter is an essential part of your car. When you turn the key or push the start button, the starter motor engages and cranks the engine so it can begin running on its own. Without it, your car simply won't start. The starter works in tandem with other components, including the battery and alternator, to get your engine up and running.
Signs Your Starter Might Be Failing
A bad starter can exhibit several warning signs before it completely stops working. Being aware of these symptoms can help you address the problem early, saving you from being caught off guard when your car refuses to start.
1. Grinding Noise When Starting
One of the most obvious signs of a bad starter is a grinding noise when you turn the key or press the ignition button. This usually happens when the starter drive gear is worn out or not engaging properly with the engine's flywheel. The grinding noise can also occur if the starter gear is failing to disengage after the engine has started, causing it to clash with the flywheel. This is not a sound you want to ignore, as continuing to try and start the vehicle in this condition can cause even more damage to your starter and flywheel.
2. Car Won’t Start, But You Hear a Click
Have you ever turned your key and heard a distinct clicking sound, but the engine doesn’t crank? This is a telltale sign of a starter problem. The clicking noise usually indicates that the starter solenoid (which transmits the electrical current to the starter motor) is functioning, but the motor itself isn’t engaging. While this issue could sometimes point to a weak battery, if the battery is fully charged and you still hear a click, it’s likely the starter that’s the problem.
3. Intermittent Starting Issues
If your car starts sometimes but not consistently, this could indicate a failing starter. Maybe the vehicle starts up fine one day, but the next day you’re left stranded. Intermittent issues are often one of the earliest signs of a bad starter and should not be ignored. Over time, the problem will likely get worse until your car doesn’t start at all.
4. Smoke or Burning Smell
If you attempt to start your car and smell burning or see smoke coming from under the hood, this could point to an overheated starter. The starter draws a significant amount of electrical current from the battery, and if it’s malfunctioning, it can overheat. Electrical issues within the starter can also cause the insulation around its wiring to overheat and burn, resulting in a distinct burning smell. At this point, it’s best to stop trying to start the car and have it looked at by a professional.
5. Dashboard Lights Work, But the Car Won’t Start
If your dashboard lights, radio, and other electrical components work just fine, but your car won’t start, the issue might not be the battery. This situation often points directly to the starter. While the battery is powering the vehicle’s accessories, the starter isn’t able to draw enough power to crank the engine.
Can It Be Something Else?
It’s worth noting that other issues, such as a dead battery, alternator failure, or wiring problems, can also cause some of these symptoms. However, if you’ve ruled out the battery and alternator and you’re still facing these problems, your starter is likely at fault. Getting an accurate diagnosis from a trusted technician is the best way to confirm the root cause of the issue.
What Should You Do Next?
If your car is showing any of the signs of a bad starter, it’s crucial to get it checked out right away. Ignoring the problem could leave you stranded at the worst possible time. Plus, allowing a bad starter to go unchecked could cause more damage to your car’s electrical system or even its engine.
You can try jump-starting the vehicle if you suspect the battery might be the issue, but if your car consistently struggles to start, or you hear grinding and clicking or experience intermittent issues, it’s time to have the starter inspected.
Not sure if your starter is failing? Bring your car to Funk Bros Auto for a thorough inspection, and let our experts identify the issue before it leaves you stranded. Contact us today!