Your car, truck, or C/SUV’s engine relies on the starter to get it started. On average, a starter will last 100,000 miles or more. Meadows Automotive can replace your vehicle’s starter when it goes bad. We are going to list the signs below that the starter motor is having problems. It’s important to have the starter replaced at the first sign of trouble to avoid getting stranded with the dead engine.
Strange Clicking Noises
If the starter is going bad, you may hear strange clicking noises when you turn the key or press the start button. This is a sign that the starter motor is dying. Another sign that the starter is dying is whirring sounds coming from the engine. If either sound does not stop, the starter motor is running constantly. Do not try to continue to start your automobile if the motor will not shut off.
A Dead Engine…
As we mentioned above, eventually, the starter will die and you will end up with a dead engine. You may or may not get signs that the motor is dying. In some cases, the starter will die without making a sound or making it difficult to start your automobile. This being said, if you hear any of the sounds discussed above or are having problems starting your automobile, have the starter checked out right away.
… With Working Lights
If your engine is dead yet the lights are still working, this definitely points to a problem with the starter. The working lights are an indication that the battery and alternator are functioning because they are providing electricity to illuminate the lights. It’s only if the lights aren’t working that your dead engine could be caused by the battery or alternator. Otherwise, it’s likely the starter.
Visible Smoke
You may also end up with smoke wafting from underneath the hood and the strong odor of something burning. This is the starter motor. It will get too hot if you keep trying to ignite your automobile when the starter is bad. It’s better to give up and have your car towed to our shop.
Oily Starter Motor
Finally, we mentioned above that you should get about 100,000 miles out of your vehicle’s starter. One thing that can cut this lifespan short is oil. If motor oil is dripping from a cracked cylinder block onto the starter, it will kill the motor prematurely.
Meadows Automotive in Waterford Township, MI, can replace your car’s starter if it needs it. Call us today.
