How to Change the Starter Motor? (VIDEO)

• It is very important to check your starter motor periodically
• An electrical fault in the brushes could be the cause of the damage
• Follow the experts’ recommendations

The starter motor is one of the essential mechanical components that provide the energy and propulsion needed to start a vehicle.

The automotive industry has made it possible for metal fragments with four wheels to move with a powerful engine to meet the needs of societies around the world.

Without the functionality of this component, in addition to the cylinders, pistons, spark plugs, connecting rods, and crankshafts that make up the engine, the car becomes completely immobilized.

Therefore, it should be checked periodically by an automotive mechanic specialist to avoid inconveniences.

Do you know if your car’s starter motor is failing?

If you are having trouble starting your vehicle, there is a possibility that your starter motor needs to be replaced.

To identify whether the problem is your starter or the battery, try jump-starting the car with another vehicle.

If the vehicle doesn’t start and you hear a spinning and clicking sound, this component is broken.

Our trusted mechanic, Antonio, from the Atlanta SUV workshop, shows us how to perform this replacement.

Locate where it is

In general, the starter motor is located between the engine and the transmission of a vehicle.

Another effective way to identify it is to follow the positive cable from the battery to where it splits: one side goes to the starter motor, and the other to the alternator.

Disconnect the negative cable from the vehicle’s battery using a socket wrench.

Wait for 15 minutes before doing any work on the car’s engine, i.e., until the charges dissipate.

How to change it?

Use a socket wrench to remove the screws that hold the starter motor in place.

In general, there are two screws that secure it, and sometimes there are three, depending on the model.

Make sure to place the screws in a location where they cannot be lost or dirtied.

Install the new starter motor in place, making sure the screws fit easily and smoothly.

Double-check

If the screws do not fit easily, that can be an indicator that the starter motor is not aligning properly with the car’s flywheel.

If that’s the case, it won’t start the car when you turn it.

Mechanic Antonio explains that you should avoid turning the key when the starter is in full operation.

Other suggestions include keeping the current terminals, both from the battery and the starter, clean.