A powerful direct-current electric motor bolted to the engine block or transmission bellhousing. When the ignition is turned, a solenoid pushes a small pinion gear outward to mesh with the ring gear on the engine flywheel or flexplate. The motor then spins the engine past its compression strokes, drawing in air and fuel until the combustion process takes over and the engine idles.
Tap the starter motor with a hammer while I turn the key to see if the brushes are just stuck.
A rapid clicking sound when turning the key usually indicates a weak battery, while a single heavy clunk points to a bad starter solenoid or seized motor.
Also heard as
- starter
Related terms
Car battery
A rechargeable 12-volt energy storage unit used to start the engine and power electronics.
Engine bay
The engine bay is the structural compartment of a vehicle that houses the motor.
Starting handle
A manual metal crank used to physically rotate the crankshaft to start older internal combustion engines.