Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Tests

Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Loose starter motor mounting bolts or brackets
- Worn or damaged flexplate or flywheel ring gear
- Worn or damaged starter motor drive gear


PINPOINT TEST C: UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

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C1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING

- Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to C2.

No
INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor - 2.5L Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 3.0L Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

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C2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE

- Ignition OFF.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B- and S-terminals.





- Engage the starter motor and verify the noise is due to the starter operation.
- Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?

Yes
GO to C3.

No
REFER to Engine System - General Information Testing and Inspection to continue diagnosis.

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C3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR

- Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor - 2.5L Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 3.0L Service and Repair.
- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
- Is the noise due to flexplate or flywheel ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a new flexplate or flywheel. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 2.5L Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 3.0L Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 2.5L Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 3.0L Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

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