If you’re stranded with a car that won’t start, and you suspect a bad starter, there are a few things you can try to get your engine going. A bad starter can be a major inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. With a little know-how, you can bypass a bad starter and get your car up and running in no time.
One way to bypass a bad starter is to use a screwdriver to jump the solenoid. The solenoid is a small device that engages the starter motor with the flywheel. To jump the solenoid, simply insert the screwdriver into the two large terminals on the solenoid. Be careful not to touch any other metal parts, as this could cause a short circuit. Once the screwdriver is in place, turn the key to the “start” position. If the engine starts, you’ve successfully bypassed the bad starter. However, this is only a temporary fix, and you’ll need to replace the starter as soon as possible.
Another way to bypass a bad starter is to push-start the car. This method requires a little more effort, but it can be done if you have a few helpers. To push-start the car, put the car in neutral and have your helpers push it forward. Once the car is moving, turn the key to the “start” position and release the clutch. If the engine starts, you’re good to go. However, if you have a car with a manual transmission, you’ll need to be careful not to stall the engine. If you do stall the engine, simply put the car back in neutral and have your helpers push it again.
Using a Battery Charger
If your car’s battery is completely dead, you can use a battery charger to jump-start it. Here’s how:
Safety Precautions
- Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling the battery charger.
- Make sure the vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface with the parking brake engaged.
- Disconnect the battery’s negative terminal before connecting the battery charger.
Connecting the Battery Charger
Refer to the image below for a visual guide on connecting the battery charger:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Connect the positive terminal of the battery charger to the positive terminal of the car battery. |
| 2 | Connect the negative terminal of the battery charger to a metal surface on the car, such as the engine block or a chassis ground. |
Charging the Battery
Turn on the battery charger and set it to the correct charging mode and voltage (usually 12V for car batteries). The charging process can take several hours, depending on how discharged the battery is.
Testing the Battery
Once the battery has charged for a few hours, turn off the battery charger and disconnect it. Use a voltmeter to test the battery’s voltage. If the battery voltage is above 12.6V, it is ready to be used to start the car.
Reconnecting the Battery
Reconnect the battery’s negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. Tighten the terminals securely.
Starting the Car
Attempt to start the car. If the car starts, let it run for a few minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery further.
Replacing the Starter
Replacing the starter is a more involved repair, but it can still be done with some mechanical experience. Here are the steps involved:
1. Safety First
As always, safety should be your top priority when working on a vehicle. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before starting any work.
2. Locate the Starter
The starter is typically located on the side of the engine, near the transmission. It’s a cylindrical-shaped component with thick cables connected to it.
3. Disconnect the Cables
Use a wrench to disconnect the cables from the starter. Be careful not to lose any nuts or bolts.
4. Remove the Mounting Bolts
Use a wrench or socket to remove the bolts that hold the starter in place. There are usually two or three bolts.
5. Pull Out the Starter
Once the bolts are removed, you should be able to pull the starter straight out of its housing.
6. Install the New Starter
Insert the new starter into the housing and tighten the mounting bolts.
7. Reconnect the Cables
Reconnect the cables to the starter. Make sure they are tight but not overtightened.
**Tip:** If you’re not sure how to properly reconnect the cables, refer to the vehicle’s repair manual or consult a mechanic.
8. Double-Check Your Work
Before you reconnect the battery, double-check that all the cables are properly connected and that the starter is securely mounted.
9. Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery and start the engine. The car should start right up if the starter replacement was successful.
Safety Tips for Working with Starters
Before attempting to start a car with a bad starter, it’s crucial to follow these safety precautions:
1. Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent electrical shock or damage to the starter.
2. Wear Proper Safety Gear
Wear safety gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from potential sparks or debris.
3. Inspect the Starter
Before replacing the starter, inspect it for any loose connections, corrosion, or damage.
4. Use Heavy-Duty Tools
Use properly sized wrenches and sockets to prevent stripping or damaging bolts and nuts.
5. Secure the Vehicle
Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to prevent the car from rolling while working.
6. Avoid Sparks
Do not smoke or work near open flames, as sparks can ignite fuel or battery gases.
7. Test the Starter
Use a multimeter to test the starter’s voltage and amperage before installing it.
8. Ensure Proper Alignment
Align the starter correctly with the flywheel to avoid binding or damage.
9. Tighten Bolts Securely
Tighten the starter bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent loosening and misalignment.
10. Ground the Starter
Connect the starter ground wire to the chassis or engine block to provide a proper electrical connection.
| Grounding Location | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Connect the wire to a clean, unpainted metal surface. |
| Engine Block | Attach the wire to a suitable bolt or bracket on the engine. |
How To Start Car With Bad Starter
If you’re having trouble starting your car, the starter may be to blame. A bad starter can prevent your car from getting the power it needs to start, leaving you stranded. If you suspect that your starter is bad, there are a few things you can do to try and start your car.
One way to start a car with a bad starter is to use a jumper pack. A jumper pack is a portable battery that can be used to jump-start a car with a dead battery. To use a jumper pack, connect the positive terminal of the jumper pack to the positive terminal of the car battery, and the negative terminal of the jumper pack to the negative terminal of the car battery. Then, try starting the car.
Another way to start a car with a bad starter is to push-start it. Push-starting a car requires some help from another person. Have the other person push the car while you’re in the driver’s seat. Once the car is moving, put it in gear and release the clutch slowly. The car should start if the starter is not completely dead.
If you can’t start your car with a jumper pack or by push-starting it, you may need to replace the starter. Replacing a starter can be a difficult and time-consuming task, so it’s best to consult with a mechanic if you’re not sure how to do it yourself.
People also ask
How do I know if my starter is bad?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your starter is bad. These include:
- The car won’t start at all.
- The car starts slowly or hesitatingly.
- The starter makes a grinding or clicking noise when you try to start the car.
- The starter solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t engage.
How much does it cost to replace a starter?
The cost of replacing a starter can vary depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $600 for a new starter, plus labor costs.
Can I replace a starter myself?
Replacing a starter can be a difficult and time-consuming task, so it’s best to consult with a mechanic if you’re not sure how to do it yourself. However, if you’re confident in your mechanical abilities, you can find instructions on how to replace a starter online or in your car’s repair manual.
