Signs My Starter Is Going Bad
If you've clocked 100,000 miles on the odometer, there's a good chance that your starter will go bad sooner rather than later. The average lifespan of the factory starter is about 100,000 miles. In terms of time, this equates to approximately 10 years. Do not worry. If you are having any of the problems listed below, we can replace the factory starter with a new one.
Odd Noises Before Ignition
It's important to understand that your starter may not give you any warning that it is going bad. It may also give you a singular warning, which is why it's important that you bring your vehicle straight to our shop if you hear any strange noises before the engine ignites. The most common sounds that a bad starter will make are clicking and whirring.
An Engine That Won't Start
If you get the engine started and ignore the strange sounds, you may find that your engine won't start the next time you attempt to do so. Unfortunately, if the starter has died, you will not be able to get your engine started. The reason why is that the starter enables the engine to bring in the air and fuel that it needs for combustion. It also generates electricity for the spark plugs.
Working Vehicle Lights
It's only natural to assume that a dead engine is being caused by a dead battery. This being said, a dead engine can also be caused by a dead starter. In order to check, take a look at your vehicle's lights to see if they are illuminated. If they are shining and look normal, they are getting electricity from the battery and alternator. This means your starter is most likely dead.
Burning Odors and/or Smoke
Another problem that points directly to the starter is hot odors wafting from the engine as well as smoke. This happens if the starter's motor is overheated. You can actually overheat the motor if you keep trying to start your automobile when the engine is dead. It's best to quit turning the ignition key and call for a tow truck.
Leaking Motor Oil
Finally, if your engine has developed an oil leak, the oil could saturate the starter and kill it. Unfortunately, it doesn't matter how many miles you have on the odometer. Even if the starter is relatively new, the motor oil can ruin it and you will need to have a new one installed.We are here to help, so call us today. We would be happy to schedule an appointment so we can check your starter and replace it if necessary.
