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Starter Noise Diagnosis

Starter Noise Diagnosis

Diagnostic Instructions


Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.

Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.


Circuit/System Description

PG starter motors cannot be repaired. They have pole pieces arranged around the armature. Both solenoid windings are energized. The pull-in winding circuit is completed to the ground through the starter motor. The windings work together magnetically to pull and hold in the plunger. The plunger moves the shift lever. This action causes the starter drive assembly to rotate on the armature shaft spline as it engages with the flywheel ring gear on the engine. Moving at the same time, the plunger also closes the solenoid switch contacts in the starter solenoid. Full battery voltage is applied directly to the starter motor and it cranks the engine.

Reference Information

Description and Operation

Starting System Description and Operation

Circuit/System Verification

Start the engine. Listen to the starter noise, while the engine is cranking. Compare the concern to a similar vehicle.

Circuit/System Testing


1. Remove the flywheel inspection cover.

2. Inspect the flywheel for the following:

Loose flywheel bolts

Chipped gear teeth

Missing gear teeth

Bent flywheel

Debris in the bell housing

3. If not within specifications, remove the debris, tighten the flywheel bolts, or repair or replace the flywheel.

4. If all inspections were within specification, replace the starter motor.


Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.


Fastener Tightening Specifications (LAU or LBW) for the 2.8L (LBW) engine

Engine Flywheel Replacement for the 2.8L (LBW) engine

Starter Replacement (2.0L Diesel) Starter Replacement (LAU/A28NER) Starter Replacement (LDE/A16XER, LLU/A16LET, 2H0/A18XER) Starter Replacement (LHU/A20NFT)