Diagnosing Your Starter
- Haley Hislop
- Aug 10
- 4 min read
An engine can't start itself; it needs something to get it going. This fundamental principle applies not only to large machinery but also to smaller devices like lawnmowers and chainsaws. In these machines, a pulley system is often employed, which you yank to initiate the engine's revolution. This manual action provides the initial momentum necessary for the engine to begin its cycle. For larger vehicles, however, the process is more complex, necessitating the use of a starter motor to facilitate the ignition process.
What is the Starter?
In the early days of automotive engineering, starting a vehicle was a labor-intensive and somewhat hazardous task. Similar to those lawnmowers and chainsaws we mentioned, the earliest cars were equipped with a hand-crank mechanism. A driver would rotate a metal crank connected to the engine, forcing it to start cycling through its necessary strokes. This manual starting method was essential because, in a four-stroke engine, only one of those strokes generates the power needed for the engine to run. When the engine is turned off, the pistons may come to rest in any position, making it necessary to move them through the initial cycles until they can generate enough power to keep the engine running independently. This process, while effective, posed significant risks; many individuals suffered injuries, including broken hands and even ribs, from the sudden jerking motion of the crank. Recognizing the dangers associated with hand cranking, Cadillac made a revolutionary advancement in 1912 by introducing the electric starter motor, which allowed vehicles to start with the simple turn of a key.
How does it work?
The starter motor is a critical component of a vehicle's ignition system. It contains a small gear, known as the pinion, which interlocks with the teeth of a much larger gear called the flywheel. The flywheel is mounted on the front of the engine and plays a vital role in the starting process. Inside the starter, there is a powerful electric motor that rotates these gears at high speed. When you turn the ignition key, the electric motor activates, causing the pinion gear to engage with the flywheel. This engagement sets the engine in motion, allowing it to rev up. If all components are functioning correctly, the engine will ignite, and your vehicle will be ready for you to drive. To better understand this process, you can watch the instructional video below, which demonstrates the starter motor in action.
How do I know the Starter is working properly?
If your car isn't starting, there are several factors you should consider to diagnose the issue. Since the starter is an electric motor, the first place to investigate is your vehicle's battery. A simple way to check the battery's status is by inserting your key and turning on the headlights. If the headlights shine brightly, your battery is likely functioning correctly. However, if you suspect a problem, have someone stand in front of your car with the headlights on while you attempt to turn the ignition. If the headlights dim significantly during this process, it may indicate that your battery is weak or failing, and it might need to be charged or replaced.
Additionally, listening to the sounds the starter makes during the ignition attempt can provide valuable clues about its condition. Below are some common sounds you might encounter and their potential implications:
A solid "CLICK" - This sound indicates that the solenoid of your starter is powered, but the Bendix drive, which is responsible for engaging the flywheel, is not moving into position. This could suggest a mechanical issue within the starter itself.
The starter engages but suddenly stops and continues whirring - This scenario implies that the Bendix drive is weak and unable to maintain its grip on the flywheel, preventing the engine from starting. In some cases, after multiple attempts, the engine may eventually start, but this is not a reliable solution.
The car starts but makes a fork-in-a-blender sound - If you hear this alarming noise, it is crucial to refrain from driving the vehicle. This sound likely indicates that the starter is still engaged and running alongside the engine. Since the engine operates at a much higher speed than the starter, this situation can lead to overheating and potentially cause the starter's motor to catch fire.
There are other potential issues that could be affecting your vehicle's starting system, including bad electrical connections or general wear and tear on components. Given the complexity of modern vehicles and their unique parts, it’s always advisable to consult a qualified mechanic if you suspect that the performance has been compromised. While Flash Lube Oil (operating as Shell Rapid Lube) does not service starters directly, we do offer a variety of other maintenance services designed to keep your car operating at peak performance for as long as possible.
Come on down to your local Shell Rapid Lube owned and operated by Flash Lube Oil! Your friends down here are happy to service your vehicle!