Starter Service
Starter Service at Stanley Ford McGregor
Your electrical system is complicated, as you’re relying on your alternator, your battery, your starter, and quite a few other parts to help you power your vehicle. When one link breaks in this chain, your vehicle might refuse to start, or you might notice that a few of your vital systems are having trouble. If you feel like your starter could potentially be the problem, you’ll want to visit our service department at Stanely Ford McGregor, where we can diagnose your vehicle.
The Role of Your Starter
With some car parts, it can be hard to figure out what their job is, but your starter is pretty straightforward. Its one and only job is to get your vehicle running so that you can get on the road. This system employs two different parts, your starter motor itself, and the starter relay that connects it to your battery. If either of these are damaged, you might find it impossible to start your vehicle, even if you have the power to do so. It’s common for drivers to confuse a damaged starter with a dead battery, as some of the symptoms are similar. For example, a dead battery will also prevent your vehicle from starting, but for different reasons. If you keep jumping your vehicle but it refuses to start, then there’s a good chance that the issue is with your starter.
Clicking, Smoke, and Leaks
Since your starter is so easy to misdiagnose, you may want to look for these key systems.
- The Classic Clicking Sound: Whether you need to turn the key or you need to push the start button, you should never be met with the dreaded clicking sound. If your starter is in especially bad shape, it may make a grinding noise or no sound at all.
- Your Engine Won’t Turn Over: This is the key symptom. If your engine won’t rev up or it refuses to start, there’s no doubt that something isn’t right.
- Your Battery is in Good Shape: If your car doesn’t start, you might be quick to blame your battery, but it’s not always the cause of your issues. If it’s fully charged and your car won’t start, then the issue is likely coming from somewhere else.
- Smoke, Leaks, and Damage: When you blow a fuse, you might notice a puff of smoke. If this happens, or you notice that you have an oil leak, you’ll want to see a qualified mechanic.
Getting Your Starter Working
You can’t drive without a working starter, so if you have errands to run and things to do, you’ll want to handle this repair quickly. If you’re near Gatesville, McGregor, or Temple, you can always bring your car to Stanley Ford McGregor, where our service department will be able to analyze your starter. We aim to provide you with fast repairs, but if the damage is extensive, we may have to replace your starter motor with a brand-new one. If this is the case, our parts department will be able to find the specific motor that’s right for your vehicle. While you’re at the dealership, we can also help you with your next tire rotation, oil change, and more.
Your starter won’t last forever, and you’re sure to notice when it’s gone bad. If it’s failing, you can schedule your next service at Stanley Ford McGregor.