When You’re a Self-Starter But Your Car Is Not

There are many things we take for granted. We expect hot water when we shower, the stove to work, and our computers to connect to wifi. We don’t expect to oversleep because the electricity went out during last night’s storm. And we sure don’t expect our car to be dead when we turn the key. 

We’ve all been there, though. We’re in a hurry but going nowhere. Calling an Uber is one option. Calling Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor for car starter repair in Ann Arbor is even better. You don’t need an appointment, and we get you on your way – fast! And there’s no reason to be without wheels. We have free loaner cars!

Do you know the signs to look for when your car malfunctions? Maybe it’s not your starter – or perhaps it is. Chances are you don’t know what’s wrong, and that’s okay. That’s why we’re here. Here are a few hints.

Listen Up! Here’s Why You Might Need Car Starter Repair

There’s no mistaking the sound of a car that won’t start. The sound of clicking or grating when you turn the key or press the start button is a clue that things are fixing to go south. Then again, you might hear no noise at all! 

Every driver eventually has that sensation of impending doom; the starter fails, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Unless you know your way around cars, you’re stuck. 

Causes

There are many reasons your car might not start – some you may be familiar with; others, not so much.

• The starter’s wiring is loose. A loose connection can explain why the starter sometimes can’t get enough juice, then eventually starts. It might also explain why the dashboard lights are on and off.

• Dirty or corroded starter connections. If the starter fails to turn, the connections inside the solenoid may be dirty or otherwise worn out.

• Corroded battery. Batteries are affected by corrosion, which can mean a shorter lifespan.

• There is an oil leak. Because of its location at the bottom of the engine, the starter is susceptible to oil leaks. To prevent further problems, repair the leak and replace the starter as soon as possible.

• Fuse or relay failure. Usually, you’ll find the ignition relay in the fuse box in the engine bay, along with a few other relays and fuses. Contaminants and pollutants such as dirt and debris are common causes of ignition relay failure.

Cars are intricate beasts; they have many parts that work together. Each part depends on other components to function. 

Prevention Before Car Starter Repair

But let’s say you know cars and how to fix common issues. Even though you didn’t cause the starter to fail, there are some maintenance things you can do to prevent your car from becoming a beached whale in your driveway: 

• Clean the connectors. It is essential to clean the connectors regularly to prevent corrosion from blocking the connection. If the connectors corrode, it can result in shortages that can permanently damage them and cause your car to break down.

• Tighten the mounting bolts. Vibrations from the engine can loosen the bolts or nuts and displace the tensioner. As a result, the belt tension will be incorrect, eventually causing belt damage and engine failure.

Car Starter Repair in Ann Arbor

Pounding your fists on the steering wheel won’t help if your car won’t start. And no, you didn’t kill the car. It’s just that your car, like everyone else’s car, misbehaves sometimes. What you need are skilled, expert, certified technicians. Because your time is valuable to you, your business is valuable to us, and we treat you that way. 

Yes, you’ll find times when your car refuses to do its job. But you have our iron-clad guarantee that we’ll do ours, every single time. 

Photo by Roland Denes on Unsplash
If a failed starter happens to you, don’t hesitate. Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor has everything you need to start your starter. Give us a call today.