The Starter Could Be the Reason Why You Cannot Get Your Car Started
If you drive an older automobile, Total Auto Care advises that the starter will go bad sooner rather than later. Usually, this ignition part lasts anywhere from 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles. Once your vehicle has reached high-mileage status, it’s possible that the reason why you cannot get your car started is that the starter has gone bad. An engine cannot start without the starter. This tiny motor plays a crucial role in firing up the engine when you turn the ignition key.
Strange Noises at Ignition
If you hear strange noises when you turn the key or press the start button, the starter motor is telling you that it is going bad. Specifically, two sounds that are associated with a malfunctioning starter are clicking and whirring. Not all starters make noise before they died completely. If you have the benefit of hearing the strange noise, drive directly to our shop for a new starter so you don’t get stranded.
An Engine That Won’t Start
Unfortunately, as we mentioned above, the engine cannot start without an operating starter. No matter how hard you try, your engine will not turn over and fire up. Again, if you drive an automobile that has over 100,000 miles on it, the starter has lived its full life. Replacing the starter will enable you to ignite your automobile again and keep the engine running.
Dead Engine With Working Lights
One thing to consider if you do have a dead engine is to determine whether the problem is the starter or an electrical problem. For example, if your vehicles lights are not working, you likely have a dead engine because the battery has died or the alternator has died. If you have a dead engine with working lights, this is a sign that the problem lies with the starter rather than the battery or alternator.
Burning Odors and White Smoke
As we mentioned above, if the starter is dead, you won’t be able to get the engine running no matter how hard you try. If you keep trying to ignite the engine, the only thing you will accomplish is burning up the starter motor. When this happens, you will smell hot odors and see white smoke.Total Auto Care in North Branch, MN, would be happy to test your engine’s starter and replace it if necessary. Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment that works with your schedule.