Huntington Beach Auto Repair

When you turn the key or press the start button, you anticipate your engine to roar to life. But if you hear clicking, grinding, or silence instead, your starter could be in trouble. The starter motor gets your engine running, and when it begins to fail, it often gives subtle warnings before it stops working entirely. Understanding these signs can save you from being stranded and help you avoid unnecessary repairs. How the Starter Works Your vehicle’s starter motor uses electrical power from the battery to crank the engine and start the combustion process. When you turn the key or push the button, the starter engages a gear that meshes with the engine’s flywheel, turning it just enough to begin running on its own. Because the starter draws a large amount of current and uses moving parts under high load, it can wear out over time. Problems with the starter itself, the solenoid, or related wiring can all lead to difficulty starting the engine. C ... read more