The starter is a complex electromechanical component that is part of a car's starting system. Its primary function is to start the engine. If we consider the symptoms of a malfunctioning starter, they are very similar to the symptoms of other car malfunctions. Key symptoms and failures of the starter can include the following: when turning on the ignition, you can hear weak metallic clicks, but you can't hear the starter working and the engine won't start. This indicates that the contacts in the solenoid are oxidized or that the battery is weakly charged.
Also, when turning on the ignition, the metallic sound may resemble a grinding noise, buzzing, or humming; the starter operates, but the engine doesn't start. This suggests that there is a problem with the bendix (solenoid) of the starter. Additionally, when turning on the ignition, the dashboard lights are on, but there are no sounds of the starter spinning at all. In this case, there is a problem with the starter's power supply, possibly due to worn-out brushes, a stuck relay, or the starter being completely broken.
If the relay in the starter is stuck, the starter may not turn off even when the engine is running. This is dangerous due to the risk of the starter overheating and prematurely failing.
If you have a problem with just the starter relay and it occurs while you're on the road without the opportunity to get to a car repair shop, you can try, as clichéd as it sounds, to tap the starter's solenoid with, for example, a wrench. Alternatively, with the ignition turned on, you can use a screwdriver to directly connect the starter; you simply need to briefly short-circuit the contacts located on the starter relay. As soon as the engine starts, immediately remove the short circuit. If the cause of your malfunction is in the relay, performing these simple actions could allow you to start the starter and thereby start the car's engine. However, it's important to understand that this is not a repair but a temporary solution to get you to a car repair shop.
If these actions do not yield any results, we recommend using our service to find the nearest car repair shop to you and contacting them for diagnostics, repair, or starter replacement. Consulting with a professional will help you determine whether your starter can be repaired. Generally, if a car is over 10 years old, the starter should be replaced, as repairing it is not cost-effective due to the difficulty of removal and installation, as well as the repair of the starter itself. By this point, its components (relay, bendix, windings) will have worn out to such an extent that you'll be constantly repairing it.
Another small tip during diagnostics: if you're told that your starter is malfunctioning and you still have doubts, request a detailed explanation from the mechanic. If you're not satisfied with the answer, seek and listen to the opinion of another specialist. The issue may actually be with a faulty battery or electrical wiring. When replacing the starter on older car models, there are two types of starters that can be used: gear-reduction starters (more practical and durable) and simple non-gear-reduction starters. Making the right choice for the replacement or repair of your starter will ensure the flawless and comfortable operation of your car.
