87% of Cars Fail to Start Because of This – Diagnose & Replace Your Starter Motor Before It’s Too Late!
Want to know “how to diagnose a bad starter motor”? Worried about “how long does it take to replace a starter motor”? This article will give you all the answers!
Does your car click but not start? It's probably the starter motor! Don't be in a hurry to tow your car to the mechanic, you can make the initial judgment yourself! This article will help you to easily understand the working principle of the starter motor, teach you to quickly diagnose whether it is really bad, and at the same time, tell you how long it takes to replace the starter motor, so that you will no longer be anxious to repair the car!
What Is the Starter Motor For?
The starter motor is the “little heart” of your car's ignition starting process. It is responsible for getting the engine started when you turn the key or press the starter button. When the engine is running, the starter motor's job is done.
In short, the engine starter motor is the engine's first breath of oxygen!
If it goes on strike, the engine won't start at all, and your car will just sit there.
How to Diagnose a Bad Starter Motor?
Don't wait to replace it, do a self-test first! The following symptoms may signal a starter motor problem:
1. Turning the key only results in a “clicking” sound
This is one of the most classic symptoms. This is one of the most classic symptoms. When the battery is fine, but the engine just does not start, you only hear a dry “click” sound. Most likely, the starter motor is stuck or damaged.
2. No response when starting, a dead silence
If you press the starter button or turn the key when no movement, not even a “click” sound. This may be because the starter motor internal contact is poor or completely burned.
3. Starting sound abnormal, feel “weak”
When the starter motor begins to deteriorate, it will still work, but the sound will become dragging or shrill. This is when it is giving you its “last words”!
4. The lights are on, but the car won't start
The battery is charged, the lights are normal, but the car just won't start. Don't doubt the battery anymore, the problem lies in the starter motor.
5. Intermittent Starting Failures
One day it starts, the next it strikes. This “emotional” behavior is usually caused by worn carbon brushes or loose internal parts in the starter motor.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Starter Motor?
1. Ordinary car model: 1~2 hours to get it done!
If yours is an ordinary family car or SUV, an experienced mechanic can usually replace it in 1~2 hours.
2. Models with complex engine layouts: 2~3 hours or even longer
Some models have a particularly hidden location for the starter motor (e.g., close to the bottom of the engine or covered by the intake manifold). This kind of disassembly is difficult and takes longer.
Do-it-yourself? Time is more flexible
If you're a DIYer and have the basic tools, you can also try to replace it yourself. However, the preparation, disassembly, and debugging may add up to anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, especially for the first operation.
What Do I Need to Know About Replacing the Starter Motor?
1. Remember to disconnect the power! Be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before disassembly.
2. Confirm the suitable model and engine model before purchasing the replacement parts.
3. By the way, check whether the cable and connector are aging, and replace them together to save time.
4. Listen to the sound, see the reaction, and make sure everything is normal before installing all the parts.
Once you find the abnormal starting, don't hesitate to check and solve the problem earlier to save your heart and money! Need to find a good quality starter motor at a good price? Come to MyMROmarts to browse ~ the aftermarket quality choice you can trust!