Your vehicle’s starter is responsible for turning over your engine. It starts the process through which fuel and air are brought into the cylinders for compression and ignition. Like all car parts, this component can eventually fail and need to be replaced. The challenge is identifying whether the starter is truly the root cause of a no-start situation. A lot of trained mechanics mistakenly recommend replacing this part when doing so is unnecessary.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons your engine may refuse to turn over. You’ll discover the problem can be related to several factors that have little to do with your starter. We’ll then take a look at issues that specifically involve this component before offering a few helpful suggestions for replacing it.

Other Factors That Can Cause A No-Start Problem

Your engine is a complex assembly that involves myriad moving parts. Some of these parts can fail, causing a no-start problem. Moreover, its operation is dependent on having the right blend of air and fuel, sufficient compression, and proper ignition timing.

If you’re unable to crank the engine, check the battery to make sure it can provide sufficient voltage. Otherwise, it will be unable to engage the starter. If the battery is fine, test the solenoid. This can be done by circumventing the part and checking whether the starter engages properly. If it does, the issue is likely with the solenoid.

If you’re able to crank the assembly, yet are unable to start it, the battery may still be at fault. As above, test the voltage output. Also, take a look at the poles to make sure they are clean of corrosion. Next, test the starter to check for mechanical issues that might be preventing it from drawing sufficient amperage.

A quick note about the solenoid: it is a common cause of no-start issues. It sends an electrical current from the battery to your starter. If it fails for any reason, it must be replaced; it cannot be repaired.

Starter-Related Issues

This component is only engaged when starting your engine. Once the engine turns over, the part disengages, stops spinning, and comes to a rest. During the short time it is engaged, however, it endures considerable strain.

When you turn the key in the ignition, a significant volume of amperage is drawn from your battery to the solenoid. This electrical current then travels to the starter, which begins spinning to crank the engine. Some drivers, in an attempt to turn the assembly over, will continue cranking it without giving the component a rest. This produces enormous heat, which can result in damage.

In some cases, the brushes or bushings can become worn prematurely. In other cases, the teeth on the component’s flywheel might be damaged, which makes it difficult for the part to turn the engine over. If you notice the assembly turning over partially, but it stubbornly refuses to start, it’s likely the starter is working properly, but the teeth of the flywheel are broken.

Tips For Replacing The Component

Before installing a replacement, make sure it offers the same capacity as the old unit. Don’t assume it does simply because it fits your vehicle. Check the power ratings.

Also, consider replacing the solenoid at the same time you replace the starter. It is a wearable component, so replacing it minimizes the chances of a no-start problem in the future.

Now is also an ideal time to invest in new battery connecting cables. Just make sure the replacement cables are able to handle the amperage delivered from the battery to the solenoid.

Your vehicle’s starter is one of the least discussed components under the hood. Yet it plays a critical role in turning your engine over whenever you start your car. When the time comes to replace it, do so with an OEM-certified unit that provides reliable performance and peace of mind.

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Category: Automotive
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