A car does not announce when to start or not. While a car owner expects the car to start regularly without fail, it may not always be so.
It can be very frustrating to park a car only to get back into it and discover that the engine isn’t cranking when you engage the ignition switch.
This is a common problem that results from a vehicle’s starter, not engaging flywheel. If you are wondering what the issue could be, the causes are not farfetched from the factors discussed in the subsequent section. Discover the causes and how to rectify them below.
How Does a Starter Motor Work?
Your car’s starter motor is the first mechanical step in initiating the internal combustion process. When you turn the ignition key or press the vehicle’s start button, it engages an electromagnetic solenoid inside the starter motor.
At that point, a rod with an attached pinion is pushed out and engages the engine’s flywheel.
As the starter motor turns it physically cycles the engine over, this helps to draw in air to fix with the fuel delivered by the fuel injectors to create the necessary fuel/air mixture to support internal combustion.
Once the necessary spark is delivered to fire the cylinders, the engine maintains the internal combustion cycle on its own, and the starter disengages.
The starter motor’s pinion and the solenoid go through much use and abuse throughout years of firing up a car’s engine.
This can be compounded by other mechanical faults like bad spark plugs or fuel system issues, which lead to hard starting or frequent stalls and restarts. However, there are certainly other things that can affect starter performance.
Why is Starter Motor Engagement with the Flywheel Important?
It is important to address the issue of the starter not engaging with the flywheel because it directly affects your vehicle’s ability to start and run.
The engine cannot be started when the starter fails to engage with the flywheel. This means you won’t be able to use your vehicle until the issue is resolved.
And if the starter problem occurs while you are away from home or in an inconvenient location, it can leave you stranded.
This issue can also result in excessive wear on the related components, and ignoring it may lead to more extensive damage, resulting in costly repairs.
So, unless you want to face these issues, you should take care of the starter not engaging with the flywheel issue as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Starter Not Engaging Flywheel
When your car’s starter motor refuses to engage the flywheel, you’re left feeling frustrated and stranded.
As you turn the key, the engine fails to roar to life, leaving you wondering what’s gone wrong. In this section, we’ll explore the telltale signs that indicate your starter motor is struggling to engage with the flywheel.
#1. Car Won’t Start.
One of the most frustrating scenarios is when your car refuses to start at all. You turn the key, and the engine remains silent, as if it’s been a victim of a sudden amnesiac episode.
In reality, the starter motor is unable to generate the necessary power to turn the flywheel, effectively leaving your car dead in its tracks. This can be due to a faulty starter solenoid or a starter motor that’s seen better days.
#2. Engine Cranks but Won’t Turn Over.
Another scenario you might encounter is when the engine cranks, but refuses to turn over. You’ll hear the starter motor whirring away, but the engine will remain still and unresponsive.
This could be indicative of worn-out flywheel rings, which are causing the starter motor to struggle to generate the necessary torque to turn the engine over.
#3. Starter Motor Clicks Slowly.
If your starter motor is clicking slowly, it may be a sign that the gears or electrical components are worn out or corroded. The starter motor’s inability to turn quickly and efficiently can be a result of rust, oxidation, or even a low battery.
In this case, it’s essential to address the issue before it leaves you stranded on the side of the road.
Remember, identifying the symptoms is the first step towards solving the problem. By paying attention to these signs and symptoms, you’ll be better equipped to diagnose and fix the issue, getting your car back on the road in no time!
What Would Cause A Starter To Not Engage The Flywheel?
Understanding what is exactly wrong with a vehicle’s starter and why it fails to engage the flywheel can give headway on what to do to rectify the problem. The following are reasons why a starter may not engage the flywheel in a vehicle.
#1. Low battery voltage.
A vehicle’s starter motor does not work independently of the battery. So, having a low battery voltage means the starter will not engage the flywheel to allow the engine to crank and start the vehicle.
Sometimes, when a starter spins but no crank, the battery may be responsible. There are several reasons the voltage of a vehicle’s battery can be drained. Parasitic battery drain, loose connection, corroded battery terminal, etc., are all factors that must be checked to know what could be wrong with a vehicle’s battery.
#2. Defective starter wiring.
A vehicle’s starter motor is linked up with the battery through a wiring connection between both components. Any faults within the wiring connection can hinder the starter’s ability to engage the flywheel.
A loose cable connection is a common wiring defection that affects the proper functioning of a vehicle’s starter motor. Whatever it should be checked.
#3. Starter solenoid.
The starter solenoid, which sits on top of a vehicle’s starter, pushes a plunger inside the vehicle’s starter, thereby pushing the pinion gear to meet the flywheel so it can turn the starter motor.
Since wires can become loose, dirty, or broken over time, the solenoid wiring can become defective, thereby lacking the capacity to engage the flywheel and starter motor correctly.
So, if you are wondering why your Chevy starter is not engaging flywheel, this could be the cause.
#4. Damaged flywheel.
The flywheel is positioned between a vehicle’s transmission and the engine. Starting a car involves the starter engaging the flywheel to produce a crank that starts the vehicle’s engine.
This is the same for a large vehicle like a tractor. Sometimes, you may be wondering why a tractor starter is not engaging flywheel.
The flywheel can become worn-out, cracked, or even lose its teeth over time. When any of these happens, it becomes difficult for the starter to engage the flywheel properly.
#5. Defective starter pinion or plunger.
The starter pinion gears are located in front of the starter motor. They engage the flywheel and fires up a vehicle’s engine once the starter turns. Over time, the pinion gears can be susceptible to wear and tear, becoming difficult to engage the flywheel properly.
How To Check A Starter?
Many auto parts stores provide free parts testing, which usually includes the starter. However, if you want to figure out what’s wrong and fix it yourself, we have some simple steps for you to follow.
Just remember that our instructions should never contradict what’s in your service manual. You can find detailed instructions for troubleshooting in the manual, tailored specifically to your vehicle.
#1. Check Battery Voltage.
It’s important to see how much voltage the battery is putting out first. If there’s not enough power, you won’t get the starter to engage. Use your multimeter and test the battery with the engine off.
The reading should be between 12.4 and 12.6 volts for a fully charged battery. If the measurement is below this, you may not have enough power for the starter.
You can replace the battery, but it’s also wise to check the alternator just to be sure this part isn’t preventing the battery from charging.
#2. Clean Battery Corrosion.
If there’s corrosion on the battery terminals, it usually has a white or green fuzzy look to it. Cleaning off the terminals is a simple task that can be done with a baking soda and water solution.
Make sure you wear gloves as you clean off the corrosion because it can be abrasive to the skin.
Once the corrosion is clean, check all of the connections to ensure they are secure. Try starting the car once again.
#3. Check the Starter.
If the two easier options didn’t help, it’s time to inspect the starter. This part isn’t always easily accessible, with some cars having it hidden behind other parts.
Check all of the connections to the starter. With your multimeter, you also want to check the starter solenoid, ensuring it’s getting enough power and sending power back out.
Some people choose to bang gently on the starter to see if it works again. In some cases, this may buy you some time, but it’s not going to resolve the issue. You can also bench-test the starter to see if you can get the pinion moving while jumping it.
#4. Check the Flywheel.
If all of your other checks come back okay, you may want to move on to the flywheel. Here are some generic steps to consider.
- Remove the starter motor (you probably already did for the last check).
- Put the transmission in Neutral.
- Rotate the crankshaft. You can use a ratchet.
- As you rotate the crankshaft, the flywheel will also turn. It’s located at the back or side of your engine, depending on the drivetrain.
- If you notice any damage to the gear teeth, you should replace the flywheel.
#5. Contact a Mechanic.
If these troubleshooting steps haven’t gotten you closer to figuring out why the starter won’t engage, it’s time to reach out to a mechanic. We have worked on a lot of starters in our day, so we understand the difficulty this part can pose if you aren’t familiar with it.
Ask your family and friends for a recommendation of a mechanic if you don’t have one already. After just an hour or so, the mechanic should be able to tell you what’s wrong and provide you with a detailed estimate for the repairs.
Diagnosing the Problem
Before you can fix the issue of a starter not engaging with the flywheel, you need to identify the root cause.
This is often referred to as diagnosing the problem, and it’s a crucial step in the repair process. Think of it like playing a game of detective – you need to gather clues and piece together the evidence to uncover the culprit behind the issue.
#1. Check Starter Solenoid.
The is essentially the brain of the starter system, and it plays a vital role in engaging the starter motor with the flywheel. To check the starter solenoid, you’ll need to:
- Locate the solenoid: This is usually a small electronic component attached to the starter motor or the flywheel.
- Check the connections: Make sure all the wires and connections are secure and not loose or damaged.
- Test the voltage: Use a multimeter to check the voltage of the solenoid. A healthy solenoid should have a voltage of around 12 volts.
- Check for signs of wear: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as corrosion or burned-out components.
#2. Inspect Flywheel Rings.
The flywheel rings play a critical role in the engagement process, and if they’re worn out or damaged, it can prevent the starter motor from engaging. To inspect the flywheel rings, you’ll need to:
- Locate the flywheel: This is usually a round metal disc attached to the crankshaft.
- Remove any covers: You may need to remove any covers or shielding to access the flywheel.
- Inspect the rings: Look for signs of wear, such as scoring, pitting, or rough edges.
- Check for damage: Inspect for any cracks, broken teeth, or other forms of damage.
#3. Test Starter Motor.
Finally, it’s time to test the starter motor itself. This is a crucial step, as a faulty starter motor can prevent the starter from engaging with the flywheel. To test the starter motor:
- Connect a battery: You’ll need a fully charged battery to test the starter motor.
- Engage the starter: Use a wrench or other tool to engage the starter motor, and hold it for a few seconds.
- Listen for sounds: If the starter motor is working correctly, you should hear it spinning and whirring as it engages with the flywheel.
- Check the voltage: Use a multimeter to check the voltage of the starter motor as it spins. A healthy starter motor should have a voltage of around 12 volts.
How Do You Fix A Starter That Won’t Engage?
You should follow the following steps to take care of your starter not engaging with flywheel issues:
#1. Repair or Replace the Battery.
If the battery is weak or dead, you can try jump-starting the vehicle using jumper cables and another vehicle with a good battery or a portable battery booster.
First, connect the positive & negative terminals of the batteries correctly, allowing the good battery to charge the weak one. Once the engine starts, let it run for a while to recharge the battery.
If the battery is old or no longer holds a charge, it may need to be replaced. In that case, you must remove the old battery and install a new one of the correct type and size.
Remember that, for replacement, you must disconnect the battery first and then remove it.
#2. Replace the Defective Starter Solenoid.
When the starter solenoid is defective, you will have no option but to replace it. First, disconnect the battery and remove the starter motor to replace the solenoid. You should be able to access the solenoid.
Replace the solenoid with a new one and secure the connection. Then just put back the motor and connect the battery.
#3. Replace the Ignition Switch.
To replace a faulty ignition switch, disconnect the battery and remove any panels or covers necessary to access the switch.
Then you will have to disconnect the wiring harness and mounting bolts that are protecting the switch.
Remove the switch and install the new switch by reversing the steps. Before reassembling the covers or panels, you should test the switch to ensure functionality.
#4. Replace the Starter Motor.
Start by disconnecting the battery and locating the starter motor. It is usually mounted on the engine block.
Remove any obstacles or components that are preventing access to it. Then disconnect the wiring and mounting screws or bolts.
Install the new starter motor, reinstall the removed components, and reconnect the battery by retracing your previous steps.
#5. Replace the Starter Relay.
First off, find the starter relay. You can find it near the fuse box or the battery. Install the new relay into the socket, ensuring it is the correct type for your vehicle.
Make sure to disconnect the battery before doing all of this; otherwise, there will be unnecessary electrical complications.
#6. Fix the Wiring Issues.
Wiring issues can be complex and require careful inspection and repair. If you notice loose, corroded, or damaged wiring, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic handle the repairs.
The wiring needs to be either repaired or replaced. So, look for damaged sections, and ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.
Improper handling of electrical systems can lead to further damage or electrical hazards, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
#7. Flywheel Replacement.
If the flywheel is damaged, then you have to replace it. As removing the flywheel involves removing the transmission or engine, it is best to seek the help of a mechanic instead of doing it yourself.
But if you are confident with your skills, first disconnect the battery and remove the necessary components like the transmission and clutch assembly until you can reach the flywheel.
Replace the damaged flywheel with a new one, and just retrace your steps. Be careful not to damage any other components during this process.
#8. Fixing A Stuck or Seized Starter Motor.
Tapping the starter motor with a hammer can sometimes free up a stuck gear. But this isn’t a permanent solution.
If any part gets stuck, repairing it may fix the issues; otherwise, you will have to do a complete starter motor replacement.
We recommend that you get the starter motor inspected by a mechanic and follow their suggestions if you have a stuck starter motor.
#9. Engine Immobilizer or Security System Fix.
First, try to turn off the engine immobilizer to see if there are any changes. If the security system has been compromised, you must find the cause and fix it. This will eventually take care of the starter motor not engaging the flywheel issue as well.
These are the most common fixes for the start motor engagement issue. Do keep in mind that there might be other underlying problems. In that case, you should take your car to a professional.
FAQs.
Q: How do I know if my starter or flywheel is bad?
A vehicle’s starter is a vital component that helps start the engine when the ignition switch is engaged. So, to know if your vehicle’s starter or flywheel is bad, take time to observe your car when you start it.
If you turn the vehicle’s ignition switch ON and it produces a whining noise without the engine cranking, the vehicle’s starter gear is likely failing to engage the flywheel. That means a bad starter needs to be serviced or replaced immediately.
If this is your experience, don’t panic. Simply contact an expert auto mechanic to discover what it will take to fix the problem.
Q: Can flywheel cause car not to start?
If a car’s flywheel is worn-out, cracked, or its teeth are broken, it won’t be easy to properly engage the starter motor when starting a vehicle’s engine. Since both components work hand in hand, a defection in one can hinder a car from starting.
If you experience difficulty starting your car, you may have to inspect the battery, ignition switch, starter motor, and flywheel, among other components, to ascertain what could be wrong.
Some of these components can be easily accessible, while others may require the service of an expert auto mechanic.
Q: Does the starter connect to the flywheel?
A vehicle’s ignition process involves several components, including the starter, which turns the vehicle’s engine over and allows the flow of air that aids combustion.
The starter does not work alone during a vehicle’s ignition process. There is a flywheel on the vehicle’s engine with a ring gear on the edge attached to the crankshaft’s end. There is also a gear on the starter that fits into the ring gear’s grooves.
So, whenever a vehicle’s ignition switch is turned ON, it energizes the starter. Its electromagnet engages and pushes the rod attached to the pinion gear, which turns the starter after meeting the flywheel. In a nutshell, there is a link-up between the starter and the flywheel.
Q: Will engine crank if starter is bad?
It is impossible for a car’s engine to crank when the starter is bad. In fact, the inability of a car’s engine to crank is a major symptom of a bad starter motor. However, it can not hinder a vehicle’s engine from cranking.
Factors like a defective ignition switch, faulty battery, and other mechanical or technical issues can also be responsible for a vehicle’s engine not cranking to start.
So, if all other components are okay, yet a vehicle’s engine refuses to crank, a defective starter may be the issue.
If you experience this challenge, the remedy is to get a replacement for your vehicle’s starter motor. You can contact a professional auto mechanic near you to do the job.
Q: Can a starter motor damage the flywheel?
All vehicle components work through a period before it finally reaches the expected lifespan. So, like other components, the flywheel can also reach its lifespan and go bad.
However, the flywheel also has a tendency of losing its teeth, becoming worn-out or cracked. When this happens, forcing a vehicle’s starter motor to work with a cracked flywheel can damage it faster than expected.
Final Words
A low battery voltage, defective solenoid, faulty starter wiring, or damaged flywheel can be the reason for a vehicle’s starter not engaging flywheel. The remedy for overcoming this problem has been provided above in this article.
You already know what to do if you are facing this challenge. If a friend complains about something similar, you most likely know how to advise them on what to do to rectify the issue.