How to Start a Car with a Bad Starter: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

A starter motor is an essential part of a car’s engine that helps it start. It uses electricity from the battery to turn the engine over and get it running. Unfortunately, starter motors are prone to problems and can fail at any time, leaving you stranded. Knowing what to do when a starter motor fails can be a lifesaver.

Using a Push Start Method

The push start method is a great way to start a car with a bad starter motor. It requires another car and jumper cables but is relatively easy to do. To successfully use this method, here are the steps to follow:

• Park the working car (with the good battery) close to the car with the bad starter motor.
• Turn off both cars.
• Attach one end of the jumper cables to the positive terminal of the working car’s battery and the other end to the positive terminal of the car with the bad starter motor.
• Attach the negative end of the jumper cables to the negative terminal of the working car’s battery.
• Get into the car with the bad starter motor and put the key in the ignition.
• Have someone push the car with the bad starter motor while you press the accelerator pedal.
• When the engine starts, remove the jumper cables and drive away.

Jump Starting the Car

Jump starting the car is another option for starting a car with a bad starter motor. This method requires jumper cables and another car with a good battery. Before jump starting the car, it’s important to take certain safety precautions:

• Wear protective clothing such as gloves, goggles, and long-sleeved shirts.
• Do not touch any metal parts of the car or the battery.
• Make sure the working car is parked close enough to the car with the bad starter motor.

Once you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, here are the steps to follow to jump start the car:

• Turn off both cars.
• Attach one end of the jumper cable to the positive terminal of the working car’s battery and the other end to the positive terminal of the car with the bad starter motor.
• Attach the negative end of the jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working car’s battery and then to an unpainted metal surface of the car with the bad starter motor.
• Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.
• Try to start the car with the bad starter motor. If it doesn’t start immediately, wait a few more minutes and try again.
• When the car starts, remove the jumper cables and drive away.

Replacing the Starter Motor

If the push start method and jump starting don’t work, then you’ll need to replace the starter motor. Here are the steps to follow to replace the starter motor:

• Identify a faulty starter motor. Signs of a faulty starter motor include grinding noises, clicking sounds, smoke coming from the engine, or the engine not starting at all.
• Gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a socket wrench set, screwdrivers, and a new starter motor.
• Disconnect the battery. Make sure the vehicle is in Park and the parking brake is engaged.
• Remove the old starter motor. Unscrew the bolts holding the starter motor in place, then disconnect the wiring harness and remove the starter motor.
• Install the new starter motor. Connect the wiring harness and secure the starter motor in place with the bolts.
• Reconnect the battery. Make sure the connection is tight and secure.
• Test the starter motor. Turn the key in the ignition and make sure the starter motor is working properly.

Installing a Remote Starter

If your car has a bad starter motor, you might want to consider installing a remote starter. A remote starter is a device that allows you to start your car remotely using a key fob or smartphone app. There are several advantages to having a remote starter:

• Convenience – You can start your car without having to leave the comfort of your home.
• Security – You can lock and unlock your doors remotely.
• Comfort – You can preheat or precool your car before getting in.

There are two types of remote starters: one-way and two-way. A one-way remote starter only sends a signal from the key fob to the car, whereas a two-way remote starter sends a signal from the key fob to the car and from the car back to the key fob. Here are the steps to follow to install a remote starter:

• Choose the type of remote starter you want. Consider your budget and the features you need.
• Purchase the remote starter. You can purchase a remote starter online or at a local auto parts store.
• Install the remote starter. Follow the instructions provided with the remote starter.
• Program the remote starter. Refer to the instructions provided with the remote starter.
• Test the remote starter. Make sure the remote starter is working properly.

Utilizing a Tow Truck

If none of the above methods work, you may have to use a tow truck. This should be your last resort since it can be expensive and time consuming. When to use a tow truck depends on the severity of the problem. If the starter motor is completely dead, then it’s best to call a tow truck. Here are the steps to follow when utilizing a tow truck:

• Call a tow truck. Give them your location and describe the problem.
• Wait for the tow truck to arrive. The driver will assess the situation and decide how to proceed.
• If the starter motor needs to be replaced, the tow truck driver will take your car to a mechanic shop or auto parts store.
• If the starter motor needs to be repaired, the tow truck driver will take your car to a mechanic shop.

Conclusion

Having a bad starter motor can be a stressful experience. But with the right knowledge and tools, you can get your car up and running in no time. This comprehensive guide has outlined various methods for starting a car with a bad starter motor, from using a push start method to utilizing a tow truck. As a helpful tip, it’s always a good idea to keep a set of jumper cables in your car in case of emergency.