WHATYOU NEED TO KNOWABOUTYOUR CAR STARTER
Yes, there is a part in your car called a “starter” and it does exactly what it says. It starts your engine. The starter in a car is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation. When you turn the ignition key or push the start button, an electrical signal is sent to the starter motor.The starter engages with the flywheel (or flexplate) of the engine, turning it to begin the combustion process. Once the engine starts, the starter disengages automatically, allowing the engine to run independently. Our center for Auto Repair in Queens has helped many customers with starter issues over 27 years in service.
What are the key components of your Starter?
The main component that turns the flywheel is the starter motor. The solenoid acts as a relay that engages the starter motor when the ignition is activated. A gear called a flywheel is attached to the engine and turned by the starter motor. The battery provides the necessary power to the starter.
What are common issues with a starter?
The first and most obvious could be due to a faulty starter, solenoid, or battery. A clicking noise often indicates insufficient power or a faulty starter. There can also be instances of a starter running continuously which may result from a stuck solenoid or wiring issues.
What are the symptoms of a bad starter?
Signs that you may have a bad starter include:
- A clicking noise when you push the start button or turn the ignition key.
- If only the dashboard lights up when you try to start your engine it may signal an issue with the starter
- If your engine is not cranking even though you get a jumpstart it may be your starter.
If you experience any of the above and you live in the Astoria Queens area, it is time to contact your Auto Mechanic in Astoria
What is the process to diagnose if the starter is faulty?
It is recommended that a professional be consulted to diagnose if the starter is the problem for the car not starting or whether there is some other reason. Generally, these are the steps that a professional mechanic will follow. Our center for Auto Repair in Queens usually follows these steps systematically.
The first step is to check the battery. Look for corrosion on terminals and loose connections. Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts or more. If possible, perform a load test to see how the battery performs under load.
Secondly, listen for sounds like a clicking noise. A single click often indicates a faulty starter or solenoid. Rapid clicking suggests a weak battery. If there's
no sound at all, it could indicate a bad starter or electrical issue.
Next, inspect the Starter and Connections. Perform a wiring check to ensure all connections to the starter and battery are clean and tight. Inspect the actual starter and look for physical damage or signs of wear on the starter.
Fourthly, test the Solenoid. Use a jumper wire to bypass the solenoid and connect the starter directly to the battery. If the starter engages, the solenoid may be the issue. This process is called a bypass test.
Fifth, check for a faulty ground. Ensure that the ground connection from the battery to the engine block is secure and free of corrosion.
Sixthly, use an OBD-II scanner connected to your car’s computer system to check for any error codes that may relate to starting issues.
Lastly, test the ignition switch itself. If the starter and battery are fine, the ignition switch might be faulty. Check for continuity in the switch when turned to the "start" position.
At Steinway Auto Repair in New York City, our expert mechanics use the most advanced equipment to detect any problems with your starter. If you are in the New York City or the Astoria Queens area and are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms or have been told that there is a problem with your starter, then stop by the leading Auto Mechanic in Queens for diagnosis and repair of your starter.