How to Diagnose Engine Starter Problems
- 1). Listen to the sound your car makes when you turn the key to the start position. If nothing happens or if there is a sluggish reaction, your starter isn't being powered properly and the problem is most likely with the battery not providing the starter with sufficient power.
- 2). Analyze the operation of your starter. If the mechanism is causing your engine to crank erratically, then that is a symptom. It could mean the drive pinion of your car is defective or a sign that a flywheel gear ring is defective.
- 3). Check the movement of the drive pinion. The drive pinion should move out of mesh and make contact with the gear ring as you attempt to start the car. If this isn't happening, the problem may be a dirty or damaged pinion or a defective solenoid switch.
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