Signs That Your Car's Starter May Be Going Bad

Automotive Blog

Your vehicle relies on the starter to get the engine going. If your starter actually fails, you will not be able to start your vehicle and will need to tow it to an auto mechanic. But, your car will likely give you many signs that the starter is nearing the end of its lifespan, giving you time to have a car mechanic replace it before it dies completely. Here are a few of the signs that your car's starter may be going bad. 

It Takes Multiple Attempts to Start Your Car 

One of the signs that you may notice if your car's starter is starting to fail is that it takes multiple attempts to start your car. You may turn the key in the ignition and hear sounds that sound like your car is trying to start, but the car may not actually start. If you find yourself having to try to start your car multiple times, you should bring your vehicle to an auto mechanic to find out if the starter or the battery may be failing. 

You Hear a Clicking Noise When Attempting to Start Your Car 

Another sign that your car's starter may be nearing the end of its life is hearing a clicking noise when you attempt to start your car. Your car may start, but you may hear a few clicks before it does. This is an indication that the starter is struggling to provide enough power to get your engine going. Clicking sounds can also be related to the electrical system, so bring your vehicle to a car mechanic for a proper diagnosis. 

There Is Smoke Coming From Under the Hood When Starting the Car

The final sign that your car's starter may be going bad is seeing smoke coming from under the hood of your car as you attempt to start your car. The smoke is an indication that your starter is overheating. An auto mechanic will need to replace the starter to solve this problem. 

When a starter fails completely, your car's lights and dashboard will illuminate, but the engine will not turn over. This is an indication that the starter, rather than the battery is dead. But, in many cases, your vehicle will let you know that the starter is failing. If you notice that it takes multiple attempts to start your car, if you hear a clicking noise when starting your car, or if you notice smoke coming from under the hood of your vehicle when starting your car, you need to bring your vehicle to an auto mechanic to have the starter replaced. 

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