Car or truck won’t start?
Here’s what the sounds mean:
Rapid clicking when key is turned to start:
- Dead/low battery (charge the battery and try again)
- Dirty terminals/connections (clean connections)
Single loud Click/Clunk sound when the key is turned to start:
- Relay is engaging and kicking Bendix out but not sending power to the motor.
- The motor is getting power but brushes are worn and not contacting(light tapping with a hammer may give you 1 more start).
You hear the motor spin but it doesn’t engage engine:
- Bendix Gear not being pulled and or worn out Bendix Drive.
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For further troubleshooting symptoms and causes, refer to the Car Starter Motor Troubleshooting Chart below.
Car Starter Motor Troubleshooting Chart
| SYMPTOM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | ACTION NEEDED |
| Engine will not crank | Dead battery Melted fusible link Loose connections Faulty ignition switch Faulty magnetic switch, relay, neutral start switch, or clutch switch Mechanical problem in engine Problem in theft deterrent system | Check battery state-of-charge Replace fusible link Clean and tighten connections Check switch operation; replace Check and replace as needed Check engine Check service manual for system tests |
| Engine cranks too slowly to start | Weak battery Loose or corroded connections Faulty starter motor Mechanical problems with engine or starter | Check battery and charge as needed Clean and tighten connections Test starter Check engine and starter; replace worn out parts |
| Starter keeps running | Damaged pinion or ring gear Faulty plunger in magnetic switch Faulty ignition switch or control circuit Binding ignition key | Check gears for wear or damage Test starter pull-in and hold-in coils Check switch and circuit components Check key for damage |
| Starter spins, but engine will not crank | Faulty over-running clutch Damaged or worn pinion gear or ring gear | Check over-running clutch for proper operation Check gears for damage and wear; replace as needed |
| Starter does not engage/disengage properly | Faulty magnetic switch Damaged or worn pinion gear or ring gear | Bench test starter Check gears for damage and wear; replace as needed |
