How often do car starters need to be replaced?
Though a car’s engine and other systems get much of the attention when it comes to maintenance, they won’t count for much if the car’s starter doesn’t work. The good news about car starters is that they can last a very long time. So, how often do car starters need to be replaced? Some automotive experts recommend that a starter be replaced after the car's been driven around 150,000 miles.
Signs That the Starter Needs Replacement
There are several signs that a starter may need to be replaced. The most obvious is that the car engine simply won’t turn over, no matter what the driver does. Other signs are:
- The engine labors to turn over.
- The driver sees smoke from under the hood when they try to turn on the car.
- Strange noises such as grinding or clicking.
- Clicking is a sign that the motor or solenoid is starting to fail.
Things That Affect the Starter
Though the starter is one of the more durable aspects of a car, some factors can affect it. If a driver keeps trying to turn the engine over when it refuses to start, the engine can overheat. This can damage the starter to the point where it needs replacement. The starter can also be fouled by leaking motor oil and damaged when the car is frequently driven on bad roads.
About Alternators
Alternators actually don’t start the car. They keep the battery charged and the car’s electrical systems running. The starter, as its name suggests, starts the car in the first place. However, the symptoms of a failed starter can resemble those of a broken alternator. It’s important to take the car to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis.
Need to know more about how often do car starters need to be replaced? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about alternators and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Though a car’s engine and other systems get much of the attention when it comes to maintenance, they won’t count for much if the car’s starter doesn’t work. The good news about car starters is that they can last a very long time. So, how often do car starters need to be replaced? Some automotive experts recommend that a starter be replaced after the car's been driven around 150,000 miles.
Signs That the Starter Needs Replacement
There are several signs that a starter may need to be replaced. The most obvious is that the car engine simply won’t turn over, no matter what the driver does. Other signs are:
- The engine labors to turn over.
- The driver sees smoke from under the hood when they try to turn on the car.
- Strange noises such as grinding or clicking.
- Clicking is a sign that the motor or solenoid is starting to fail.
Things That Affect the Starter
Though the starter is one of the more durable aspects of a car, some factors can affect it. If a driver keeps trying to turn the engine over when it refuses to start, the engine can overheat. This can damage the starter to the point where it needs replacement. The starter can also be fouled by leaking motor oil and damaged when the car is frequently driven on bad roads.
About Alternators
Alternators actually don’t start the car. They keep the battery charged and the car’s electrical systems running. The starter, as its name suggests, starts the car in the first place. However, the symptoms of a failed starter can resemble those of a broken alternator. It’s important to take the car to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis.
Need to know more about how often do car starters need to be replaced? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about alternators and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
