1001 Sam Bass Rd, Round Rock, TX, 78681
(512) 255-2022
Have you ever inserted the key and twisted it, pressed the start button, and got only a clicking sound, or did the engine take some time before starting? This could be due to a faulty starter motor or any other reason that requires a mechanic to diagnose and fix.
The starter motor is an electrical device that assists in starting a car’s engine. When the key is turned or the start button is pressed, the battery transfers electrical energy to the starter motor, and the latter engages the flywheel. This pushes the engine’s crankshaft, enabling the commencement of the combustion process. After the engine has started, the starter motor will shut off by itself. When it begins to fail, you may be stuck with a non-starting car at the most inconvenient time possible.
What Makes The Starter Motor Fail
- Worn-Out Starter Motor Parts: Like any other part of a car, the internal parts of the starter motor may wear out due to usage. The brushes, bearings, and armature within the motor are susceptible to high friction and electrical current, which may cause them to fail. If the above components are worn out, the starter may have difficulty engaging or cranking the engine, and you will be stuck with a non-starting car.
- Weak or Dead Battery: The starter motor depends on the battery to provide the necessary power to crank the engine. If the battery is weak, damaged, or dead, the starter motor will not be supplied with enough current to turn over the engine. This often results in a clicking sound when you attempt to start the car or, in some cars, total silence. A check on the battery condition and charge will help identify whether the problem is from the starter motor or the battery.
- Starter Solenoid Problem: The solenoid is an essential component of the starter assembly, passing current from the battery to the starter motor. If this solenoid is faulty, it can prevent the motor from engaging, and you will be unable to start your car. Signs of a bad starter solenoid include a single-click sound when turning the key or no sound at all.
- Ignition Switch Issues: If there is an issue with the Ignition switch, it will not relay the signal to the starter motor when you turn the key. This can cause problems like the car starting and stopping or even complete failure to start. Sometimes, a faulty ignition switch manifests symptoms similar to those of a faulty starter motor, so a correct diagnosis must be made to get the right component repaired.
How to Prevent Starter Motor Issues
Even though it is not possible to totally prevent a starter motor from failure, you can actually minimize the chance of failure through proper car maintenance. Your car’s battery should always be in the best condition because a weak battery can put the starter motor under additional pressure. It is also important to inspect wiring frequently and ensure that all the connections are solid to avoid any electrical problems. Another way to increase the lifespan of the starter is to avoid short travels that involve many starts and stops. If your car starts to produce a slow cranking sound, clicking sound, or erratic starting, it is advisable to have the car checked in order to prevent it from a total breakdown.
Get Professional Assistance From The Mechanics At Adair and Sons
At Adair and Sons, we know that a 
faulty starter motor can be a real inconvenience. We have a team of highly qualified mechanics in Round Rock, TX, who are capable of handling all problems related to starter motors so that your car starts without hitches.
Whether you have a faulty starter motor or any other part of the ignition system is faulty, we have the technical competence to get you back on the road in no time. We also extend our services to drivers within the neighboring regions, providing quality services that meet the client’s expectations. Talk to our experts today, and we’ll get your car running like new.