Cars are complicated machines. It doesn’t take much for something to malfunction. Then, when it does, it can be nearly impossible for someone who doesn’t know about cars to determine the problem. Is it something simple that you can fix yourself, or will it require a costly repair by a mechanic? If your car exhibits unusual symptoms, it could be your 2007 Saturn Aura starter. A vehicle’s starter is simply a small motor that starts your car’s engine. Your car’s battery powers this motor. There are several reasons your starter could be failing, including:
- the starter’s wires are loose
- the starter’s connections are soiled or corroded
- the relay has malfunctioned
- the starter’s system parts are worn or damaged
- oil has been leaking
- a fuse has blown
- the car’s battery has corroded
A malfunctioning starter can resemble other car problems, so it’s helpful to know the specific symptoms of failure so you can resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Clicking Noise
One common symptom of a failing starter is hearing a single clicking sound (similar to a soft knock) when you turn your ignition key or push the start button. However, if it is a repeated clicking, it is probably not a problem with the starter, but more likely the battery or the alternator.
Engine Will Not Crank
One of the first signs of a starter issue is if the engine doesn’t turn over immediately upon activating the ignition. It may even completely fail to crank.
Smoke or Smoke Smell
The 2001 Toyota Corolla starter is part of the vehicle’s electrical system, so it can overheat, resulting in smoke rising from underneath the hood, or you may smell smoke in the cabin. This smoke will come from damaged overloaded wires that begin burning. If your starter has blown a fuse or short circuit, you may notice smoke when you repeatedly try to start your car. You can cause severe damage to your electrical system if you keep trying to start the engine.
Lights Come On or Dim
Dimming lights can be an early warning sign of a failing starter. You may notice that your dashboard lights come on when you try to start the car, yet there are no other signs of life. You may not hear any sounds but only see the lights. You may also notice that your interior lights and headlights dim as you turn the key. If this happens, it could mean that your starter is drawing too much energy from the battery, overwhelming your car’s electrical system.
Grinding Sound
You should not hear unusual sounds or pauses when you have a reliable starter. It should power your car immediately when you turn the key or press your ignition’s start button. If you hear a grinding or whirring sound, there’s a good chance the starter is failing. The starter consists of gears and other internal components that could be damaged or worn.
Fortunately, if you get any of these signs of a failing starter, immediate help is available. A reputable online automotive parts dealer can assist you in everything you need to perform a 2010 Chevrolet Traverse starter repair or replacement successfully.
