Is your vehicle having trouble starting? It might be time to replace your starter motor. At Mt Roskill Collision Centre, we provide professional starter motor replacement services for all types of vehicles. A faulty starter motor can leave you stranded, but our experienced mechanics can quickly diagnose and replace it, ensuring your car starts smoothly every time.

What is a starter motor?

A starter motor is a crucial component in starting a vehicle’s engine. It converts electrical energy from the car’s battery into mechanical energy, creating the initial rotation needed for the engine to begin running. When you turn the key or press the start button, the starter motor engages with the engine’s flywheel, turning it until the engine can run on its own. Here’s a breakdown of how the starter motor operates:

  • Activation: When you turn the ignition key or press the start button, a small current is sent to the starter solenoid, which acts as an electromagnetic switch.
  • Solenoid Engagement: The solenoid engages, moving a plunger that connects the starter’s main terminals, allowing a larger current to flow from the battery to the motor.
  • Pinion Gear Movement: The solenoid pushes the pinion gear into position with the engine’s flywheel. The pinion gear then meshes with the flywheel’s teeth.
  • Engine Cranking: The starter motor spins, turning the flywheel. This action cranks the engine’s crankshaft, allowing the combustion process to begin and the engine to start running on its own.
  • Disengagement: Once the engine starts, the solenoid disengages, pulling the pinion gear back. A clutch mechanism prevents damage by allowing the pinion gear to disengage smoothly if the engine turns faster than the starter.

This entire process happens in seconds but is essential for initiating the engine’s operation in vehicles with internal combustion engines.

What are the signs of a starter motor problem?

Engine Won’t Turn Over: If the engine fails to start despite a fully charged battery, this is a key sign of a starter problem. It’s often accompanied by a clicking noise when you turn the key​.

  • Slow Cranking: The engine cranks slowly or struggles to start, indicating that the starter might be failing.Grinding Sound: A grinding noise when starting the car suggests worn gears between the starter and flywheel, which can cause further damage if not addressed.Smoke or Burning
  • Smell: Overheating from a short circuit or continuous power to the starter may produce smoke or a burning odour.
  • Oil Leaks: Oil leaking onto the starter can lead to malfunction, especially in older vehicles
  • Can you still start a car with a bad starter?

Starting a car with a bad starter can be tricky, but a few temporary methods may help you get the vehicle running. One approach is to attempt a jump-start. While this typically helps with a weak battery, it might provide just enough power to engage a starter that is struggling. However, this method often doesn’t address the underlying issue if the starter is the main problem.

Another technique involves gently tapping the starter with a tool like a hammer or wrench. This can sometimes realign the internal brushes and help the starter engage temporarily, though it’s not a long-term solution.

Why Choose Us?

  • Fast and reliable service
  • Highly skilled technicians
  • Affordable pricing
  • All vehicle makes and models serviced
  • Insurance assistance for eligible repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

A faulty starter motor often exhibits several warning signs that indicate it may need repair or replacement. Common symptoms include difficulty starting the car, such as the engine cranking slowly or not at all. You may also hear a grinding noise or a clicking sound when attempting to start the engine. In some cases, the starter may engage intermittently, causing the car to start unpredictably. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to have your starter motor checked to prevent further complications.

Replacing a starter motor typically takes a few hours, but the exact time can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Some vehicles have starter motors that are more easily accessible, making the job quicker, while others may require more time due to complex engine configurations. Our technicians will give you a more accurate estimate once we assess your specific vehicle.

The cost of replacing a starter motor in New Zealand typically ranges between $400 and $800 NZD, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the cost of parts and labour. Some vehicles may require more expensive starter motors or additional repairs, which can increase the cost. We recommend contacting us for a personalised, no-obligation quote based on your vehicle’s specific needs.

Yes, we work with all major insurance companies to help simplify the repair process for you. If your starter motor replacement is covered under your policy, we can assist with filing claims, providing the necessary documentation, and communicating with your insurance provider to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Our goal is to take the stress out of dealing with repairs and insurance claims.

Starter motors generally fail due to a combination of wear and tear, electrical issues, or mechanical damage. Over time, the internal components of the starter motor, such as the brushes and bearings, can wear out. Additionally, problems with the vehicle’s battery, alternator, or wiring can put extra strain on the starter motor, leading to premature failure. Mechanical issues, like a damaged flywheel, can also cause the starter motor to malfunction. Regular maintenance can help prevent some of these issues from escalating.