How do I know if my starter needs to be replaced?

In short, if your engine won’t crank and you hear a clear click or a string of rapid taps when you turn the key or press Start, the starter is a prime suspect. But because the starter depends on the battery and electrical system, you should rule out the battery, bad cables, and the alternator before deciding on a replacement.

The starter is the electric motor that turns the engine over during a cold start. It engages with the flywheel to get the engine spinning, then hands off starting duties to the engine itself. Because it shares a circuit with the battery and charging system, failures can stem from worn brushes, a sticking solenoid, damaged windings, or gear wear. Knowing the symptoms and performing a focused test can help determine whether you should repair or replace the unit.

Common signs your starter may be failing

Here are the most common indicators that the starter could be failing. Note that some symptoms resemble charging-system issues, so consider a quick battery-and-wiring check as part of your assessment.

• You hear a single loud click or a rapid series of clicks when turning the key, but the engine does not crank.


• The engine won’t crank at all, even though the dash lights come on and the battery appears healthy.


• Cranking is slow or intermittent, and the problem seems to be getting worse over time.


• You hear grinding, whirring, or growling noises as the starting motor engages.


• You notice a burning smell or see smoke near the starter after attempting to start.


• Dash lights dim noticeably during starting attempts, suggesting insufficient current to the starter.

When these symptoms show up on their own or in combination, a failing starter is a strong possibility. However, it’s essential to rule out battery health, corroded connections, and a faulty ground strap before committing to a replacement.

Diagnosis: how to tell if the starter is the culprit

To avoid unnecessary replacement costs, follow a structured diagnostic approach. This sequence helps distinguish starter issues from battery or electrical problems.

1. Test the battery and charging system. Use a multimeter to confirm a resting battery voltage around 12.6 volts, and perform a load test if possible. A weak or failing battery can mimic starter problems.


2. Inspect battery cables and grounds. Look for corroded terminals, loose connections, or damaged ground straps. Clean and tighten as needed.


3. Check for proper voltage at the starter. With the key in the start position, verify that the starter solenoid is getting voltage (and note any voltage drop). A lack of voltage or a significant drop points to wiring, ignition switch, or battery issues rather than the motor itself.


4. Listen for the solenoid’s click. A solid click with no motor engagement usually points to an electrical issue (solenoid or wiring) or a seized motor; a missing click can indicate a bad solenoid or a dead battery.


5. Consider a bench test or professional diagnostic. If the vehicle is accessible to a shop, they can remove the starter and test it on a bench to determine motor health and gear engagement.

In practice, a battery in good condition with clean connections plus a normal voltage reading during cranking strongly suggests the starter motor or solenoid is failing and may need replacement.

Replacement options and what they cost

Choosing between a new starter, a remanufactured unit, or a rebuilt option depends on your vehicle, budget, and tolerance for repeat issues. Here are the most common routes and what to expect.

• New (OEM or aftermarket) starter: Typically the most reliable option with the best warranty, but also the most expensive. Parts cost often ranges from a few hundred dollars, with total installed cost commonly in the $300–$750 range depending on vehicle and labor rates.


• Remanufactured starter: A popular middle-ground choice that reuses many parts and can offer substantial savings. Expect lower parts cost and similar installation time, with total price generally in the $250–$550 range.


• Rebuilt starter: Similar to remanufactured, but quality and warranty vary by shop. Prices are usually in the same ballpark as remanufactured units, sometimes a bit lower.

Before deciding, confirm compatibility with your vehicle, check warranty details, and consider whether the shop will test the electrical system and bench-test the replaced unit. For some cars, a full removal and replacement is straightforward; for others, labor can be higher due to engine bay layout or access to bolts.

Understanding the cause: why starters fail

Starter failures don’t always happen all at once. Most issues fall into two broad categories: electrical problems in the solenoid and wiring, and mechanical wear inside the motor or gear train. The parts most likely to wear out or fail prematurely include the brushes, bearings, solenoid plunger, and the drive gear that engages the flywheel. In high-mileage or frequently hot-started engines, heat can accelerate wear and reduce performance.

Solenoid and electrical connections

The solenoid acts like a small relay to engage the starter gear. If it sticks, sticks intermittently, or fails to send current to the motor, you’ll see clicks or no engagement at all. Corroded or loose terminals, damaged fusible links, and weak ground connections can mimic solenoid failure. Cleaning, tightening, or replacing faulty wiring and connectors often resolves these symptoms without replacing the motor itself.

Wear in the motor or gear train

Over time, brushes wear down, windings overheat, and the gears chew the flywheel’s teeth. This reduces crank speed and can cause grinding noises. In severe cases, the motor may seize, or the gear may fail to disengage after the engine starts, which can lead to further damage if driven. A bench test or professional inspection helps determine whether the motor itself needs rebuilding or replacement.

Next steps and expert advice

If your inspection points toward the starter and you’re comfortable with basic automotive electrical work, you can attempt the following safe checks yourself. If you’re unsure, or if the car is under a warranty, seek professional diagnosis to avoid unintended damage or injuries.

Always begin with the simplest, least invasive checks—battery health and clean connections—and only proceed to replacing the starter after confirming the issue through testing or professional diagnosis.

Summary

When the engine won’t crank, a failing starter is a common culprit, but it’s important to verify the battery, cables, and charging system first. Look for telltale signs like clicking, no crank, grinding noises, or dimming lights, and use a structured diagnostic approach to confirm the root cause. If the starter is indeed failing, you have options: a new unit, a remanufactured unit, or a rebuilt option, with costs varying by vehicle and labor. For most drivers, a professional diagnosis provides clarity and peace of mind, helping to avoid premature replacement or missed issues.

Bottom line: careful testing, informed choices about parts, and professional help when needed will ensure you get back on the road with a reliable starting system.

Can AutoZone test a starter?

Yes, AutoZone can test a starter for free, but you will need to remove it from your vehicle and bring it into the store for the test. The test is quick and done on their equipment to determine if the starter is working properly. 
You can watch this video to learn about the free starter testing service at AutoZone: 54sWatch Wes WorkYouTube · Nov 17, 2024

• Service details: AutoZone offers free testing for starters, alternators, and batteries. 
• How it works: You must remove the starter from your vehicle and bring it to a store for the test. 
• Duration: The test itself takes about five minutes. 
• Limitations: The availability of this service can depend on store location and equipment, so it's a good idea to call your local store first to confirm. 

What are the symptoms of a bad starter?

Symptoms of a bad starter include a clicking sound or grinding noise when you turn the key, the engine cranking slowly, or a complete no-start with dashboard lights still on. Other signs can be a whirring sound without the engine turning over or visible smoke or a burning smell. 
Common symptoms

• Clicking: A rapid clicking sound often means the starter motor is getting power but can't turn the engine over, which can be caused by a weak battery or a bad starter solenoid. 
• No crank: The car won't start at all, or you'll hear a single click. Dashboard lights and the radio may still work normally, indicating a problem with the starter rather than a dead battery. 
• Slow cranking: The engine cranks slowly or sluggishly, taking longer than usual to start. This can be a sign that the starter motor is failing. 
• Whirring or grinding: A whirring noise without the engine turning over can mean the starter is spinning but not engaging with the engine's flywheel. Grinding sounds can indicate a worn-out starter gear. 
• Smoke or burning smell: This is a more serious sign, potentially caused by a short in the starter motor, especially if you've tried starting the car multiple times. 
• Intermittent starting: The car starts sometimes but not others, and this may be a precursor to complete failure. 

What to check

• Battery connections: Loose or corroded battery terminals can cause a clicking or no-start condition. Try cleaning the terminals. 
• Oil leaks: If the starter motor is covered in oil, it can be damaged. Address the oil leak before it causes further issues. 
• Safety switches: For automatic transmissions, ensure the gear selector is firmly in "Park" or "Neutral". 

Can I jump start a car with a bad starter?

No, you cannot jump-start a car with a bad starter, as jump-starting only provides power to the battery and cannot fix a mechanical problem with the starter motor itself. If the starter is faulty, the engine will not crank even with a jump start. However, a jump start can be a temporary workaround if the starter is weak, but it is a sign that the starter needs replacement soon. 
This video explains how to jump-start a car with a bad starter: 53sMercie J Auto Care, llcYouTube · Oct 8, 2025
Why jump-starting won't work

• A jump start supplies the battery with power from another vehicle, which is necessary to crank the engine. 
• If the starter is bad, it means the engine's starter motor is failing and cannot turn the engine over, even if the battery is fully charged. 
• A bad starter can also cause a jump start to fail. 

What to do instead

• Check connections: Ensure the battery terminals and starter connections are clean and tight. 
• Tap the starter: In some cases, you may be able to temporarily free a stuck starter motor by gently tapping it with a hammer. 
• Push-start (manual transmission): If you have a manual transmission, you can try to push-start the car by rolling it and popping the clutch while in first gear. 
• Replace the starter: The only permanent solution for a bad starter is to replace it with a new one. 

This video demonstrates how to test a car starter with a screwdriver: 1mJoe StoeYouTube · Jun 8, 2022

How do I know if I need to replace my starter?

You may need to replace your starter if you hear a clicking or grinding noise when you turn the key, the engine cranks very slowly, or the car won't start at all even though the dashboard lights turn on. Other signs include seeing smoke or a burning smell from under the hood, or noticing the starter is covered in oil. 
This video explains the common symptoms of a bad starter: 59sAutoZoneYouTube · Mar 15, 2022
Symptoms to look for

• Clicking or grinding noises: A loud single click or rapid clicking when you turn the key often points to starter issues. Grinding noises can be a sign of worn-out gears. 
• Slow cranking: If the engine turns over very slowly, as if it's struggling, your starter might be failing. 
• No-crank but dash lights are on: This is a classic sign. The electrical system has power (lights work), but the starter isn't engaging to crank the engine. 
• Engine won't start after a jump: If you try to jump-start the car and it still won't start, the problem is likely with the starter itself, not just a dead battery. 
• Smoke or burning smell: This indicates the starter is overheating and can be a serious sign of failure. 
• Oil-soaked starter: Oil on the starter indicates a leak, which can damage the electrical components and cause it to malfunction. 

This video demonstrates how to test for a bad starter: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Jan 31, 2017
Next steps

• Consult a professional: While these are strong indicators, it's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem to rule out other issues like a bad battery or alternator. 
• Consider a starter test: Some auto parts stores offer free starter testing services, which can confirm if the starter is bad before you replace it.