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How can I tell if a starter went out?

I’ve been having trouble getting my engine up and running in the mornings. I think the problem is with the starter, but I’m not quite sure. Can you tell me how to tell if a starter went out?

avatar
Natalie Todoroff · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Here’s how you can tell if a starter went out: you hear a clicking, whirring, or
grinding
noise when you try to start your engine. This is the biggest sign of a problem with your starter, so have a keen ear the next time you’re in your car!
If you’re not hearing anything but still suspect that your starter went, keep an eye out for these signs as well:
  • Smoke coming from your car
  • Engine oil covering your starter
  • Dashboard lights up, but engine does not start
  • Engine is not revving/cranking
A busted starter is a pain at best and can cause a total car breakdown at worst. Luckily, that’s why
mechanical breakdown insurance
exists—and the
Jerry
app can help you find it.
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