How often should you replace your car starter?
Nothing is worse than being in a hurry to get somewhere, and all your car engine does is crank endlessly, or simply clicks, without turning over when you attempt to start the vehicle. This could indicate a problem with your starter. Alternatively, it could also mean that your car's alternator is going bad.
How often should you replace your car starter? That depends on how much you drive the car and the type of starter that you have installed on your vehicle. Most starters are built to last for upwards of 120,000 miles, and some starters will end up lasting the entire lifetime of your car if you are lucky. However, starters vary and can fail much earlier than expected.
Drivers who crank their engines incessantly often find out that this is not good for the starter. Also, a vehicle's electrical system and battery play a role in how long a starter will last.
How Often Should You Replace Your Car Starter According to Many Mechanics?
Most automobile mechanics recommend checking out the starter at least every 50,000 to 140,000 miles or so. In addition, if the starter begins to indicate a problem, then this should be investigated right away.
Common signs of starter problems or failure:
- The engine does not start or cranks slowly
- Clicking noises can be heard when the starter is engaged
- Dashboard lights are dim
- The starter is covered with oil
- Presence of smoke or a burning smell
Alternators can cause similar symptoms. So, how do you determine whether it's your alternator or the starter?
How to Determine if an Alternator Is Starting to Fail?
Alternators help to keep the car's battery charged. This, in turn, keeps the lights on and other electrical components powered. When an alternator begins to fail, you may notice flickering or dimmed lights, other electrical malfunctions, or a dead battery. You may also notice problems with starting the vehicle after driving somewhere or hear strange whines from the engine while driving, especially at higher speeds.
Question about how often should you replace your car starter? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about Alternators and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
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Nothing is worse than being in a hurry to get somewhere, and all your car engine does is crank endlessly, or simply clicks, without turning over when you attempt to start the vehicle. This could indicate a problem with your starter. Alternatively, it could also mean that your car's alternator is going bad.
How often should you replace your car starter? That depends on how much you drive the car and the type of starter that you have installed on your vehicle. Most starters are built to last for upwards of 120,000 miles, and some starters will end up lasting the entire lifetime of your car if you are lucky. However, starters vary and can fail much earlier than expected.
Drivers who crank their engines incessantly often find out that this is not good for the starter. Also, a vehicle's electrical system and battery play a role in how long a starter will last.
How Often Should You Replace Your Car Starter According to Many Mechanics?
Most automobile mechanics recommend checking out the starter at least every 50,000 to 140,000 miles or so. In addition, if the starter begins to indicate a problem, then this should be investigated right away.
Common signs of starter problems or failure:
- The engine does not start or cranks slowly
- Clicking noises can be heard when the starter is engaged
- Dashboard lights are dim
- The starter is covered with oil
- Presence of smoke or a burning smell
Alternators can cause similar symptoms. So, how do you determine whether it's your alternator or the starter?
How to Determine if an Alternator Is Starting to Fail?
Alternators help to keep the car's battery charged. This, in turn, keeps the lights on and other electrical components powered. When an alternator begins to fail, you may notice flickering or dimmed lights, other electrical malfunctions, or a dead battery. You may also notice problems with starting the vehicle after driving somewhere or hear strange whines from the engine while driving, especially at higher speeds.
Question about how often should you replace your car starter? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Cannon Auto Repair for more information about Alternators and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
