Introduction
When your car won’t start, it can be a frustrating and time-consuming issue to diagnose. One potential cause of this problem is a bad starter, which is responsible for turning over the engine when you turn the key in the ignition. Knowing how to tell if your starter is bad can save you time, money, and stress. In this article, we will explore the various ways to determine if your starter is bad and what to do about it.
Definition of a Starter
The starter is a small electric motor that is used to turn over the engine and get it running. It is located at the front of the engine and is connected to the flywheel or flexplate. When the key is turned in the ignition, the starter engages and spins the flywheel or flexplate, thus starting the engine.
Overview of the Problem
If the starter is not working correctly, the engine will not turn over when you try to start it. A bad starter can be caused by several factors, such as worn out parts, corroded connections, low battery voltage, or a faulty solenoid. It is important to identify the cause of the problem in order to repair it and get the car running again.
Check the Engine Cranking Speed
The first step in diagnosing a bad starter is to check the engine cranking speed. The cranking speed is the speed at which the engine turns over when you turn the key in the ignition. A slow cranking speed could indicate that the starter is weak or failing.
Steps for Checking the Cranking Speed
To check the cranking speed, you will need to connect a tachometer to the spark plug wire. Turn the key in the ignition and note the RPM reading on the tachometer. If the cranking speed is below 200 RPM, then there may be an issue with the starter.
Tips for Ensuring Accuracy
It is important to make sure that the tachometer is connected properly before taking a reading. Additionally, it is best to perform this test while the engine is cold, as a warm engine will tend to spin faster than a cold one.
Look for Signs of Corrosion
Another way to tell if your starter is bad is to inspect it for signs of corrosion. Corrosion can damage the internal components of the starter and prevent it from working properly.
What to Look For
When inspecting the starter for corrosion, look for any discoloration, flaking, or residue. Also, check the wiring harnesses and connectors for any signs of corrosion. If you see any of these signs, then the starter may be corroded and in need of replacement.
Potential Causes and Solutions
Corrosion can be caused by moisture and other environmental factors, so it is important to keep the starter dry and protected from the elements. Additionally, using dielectric grease on the connections can help to prevent corrosion.
Listen for Unusual Noises
Another way to tell if your starter is bad is to listen for unusual noises. If the starter is failing, it may make a grinding, clicking, buzzing, or whining sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
Types of Sounds to Listen For
Grinding: This is usually caused by a worn out starter gear.
Clicking: This is usually caused by a low battery.
Buzzing: This is usually caused by a faulty solenoid.
Whining: This is usually caused by a failing bearing.
Possible Reasons for the Sounds
If you hear any of these sounds when you turn the key in the ignition, then the starter may be failing. It is important to have the starter tested to determine the exact cause of the problem.
Test the Starter Solenoid
The starter solenoid is responsible for transferring power from the battery to the starter. If the solenoid is failing, it can cause the starter to fail as well.
Steps for Testing the Solenoid
To test the solenoid, you will need to disconnect the battery cable from the starter and then use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the terminal. If the voltage is less than 12 volts, then the solenoid may be faulty and in need of replacement.
Tips for Ensuring Accuracy
It is important to make sure that the multimeter is set to the correct voltage range before taking a reading. Additionally, it is best to perform this test while the engine is off, as running the engine can affect the accuracy of the readings.
Inspect the Armature and Brushes
The armature and brushes are responsible for transferring electrical current from the battery to the starter. If either of these components is worn out or damaged, then the starter may not work properly.
What to Look For
When inspecting the armature and brushes, look for any signs of wear or damage. If either of these components is worn out or damaged, then the starter may need to be replaced.
Potential Causes and Solutions
Wear and damage to the armature and brushes can be caused by age, excessive heat, or vibration. To prevent this from happening, it is important to keep the starter clean and free of dirt and debris.
Test the Battery Voltage
Low battery voltage can also cause the starter to fail. To test the battery voltage, you will need to use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals.
Steps for Testing the Battery Voltage
To test the battery voltage, first make sure that the battery is fully charged. Next, use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 12.5 and 13.5 volts.
Tips for Ensuring Accuracy
It is important to make sure that the multimeter is set to the correct voltage range before taking a reading. Additionally, it is best to perform this test while the engine is off, as running the engine can affect the accuracy of the readings.
Have a Professional Diagnostic Test Performed
If all of the above tests fail to pinpoint the cause of the problem, then it may be necessary to have a professional diagnostic test performed. This test can help to identify any underlying issues with the starter and allow a technician to make the appropriate repairs.
Benefits of Having a Professional Test Done
Having a professional diagnostic test done can save you time and money in the long run. A qualified technician can quickly identify the cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs, thus avoiding costly repairs down the line.
How to Find a Qualified Professional
When looking for a qualified technician to perform a diagnostic test, it is important to research their credentials and experience. You can also ask for recommendations from friends and family who have had similar work done in the past.
Conclusion
Diagnosing a bad starter can be a difficult and time-consuming process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and accurately determine if your starter is bad and what needs to be done to fix it. Armed with this knowledge, you can ensure that your car will be running smoothly in no time.
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