Troubleshooting the car related problems is often not an easy task at all as the car engines are generally very complex in nature. However, it can always prove worthwhile to know about the exact car problems which are being faced, before taking the car to an automobile mechanic. Additionally, one can even save money if the car related problems are small and can be repaired easily without the help of a car mechanic. The various steps enlisted underneath outline the exact method of troubleshooting the car starter problems:
- As with most of the car related problems, the first step is to always check if the car battery working correctly and is fully charged. For the same purpose, one can turn on the headlights and check whether they are working correctly and radiate adequate brightness. However, even if the headlights turn on and are of the usual brightness, the car battery is definitely not an issue at all.
- It can also prove worthwhile to check the voltage level of the battery by using a voltmeter whose two leads are connected across the car battery terminals. The fully charged car battery will always give a reading of 12.5V, whereas a dead car battery will always read lesser than 11.8V.
- The dimming of idiot lights should also occur when the car is started. Under normal conditions, it indicated that the ignition switch is functioning properly.
- The next step is to find the car starter solenoid in the car engine, which consists of two post electrical connectors at its rear. Consequently, the transmission should be put in neutral in addition to putting the parking brake on.
- A pair of the insulated pliers should be drag across the post terminals, after grasping the pliers by their rubber handle. The sparks would be consequently seen but the tool should be held in place until a fine connection is made between the two terminals. This step would effectively connect the car battery to starter motor and bypass the solenoid. It should be observed whether the starter motor starts spinning, but without starting the engine. However, if the car starter motor does not spin or shows some related problems, it needs to be replaced.
- The last step for evaluating this type of car related problems is to return the car transmission to the neutral position in addition to turning the car parking brakes on. Once the preliminary steps are completed, one should notice the heavily braided wire, which connects the solenoid to the starter motor. Consequently, the positive lead from the voltmeter should be connected to the braided wire while grounding the negative lead at the same time. Subsequently, the ignition key should also be turned to start the car engine. Any other measurement on the voltmeter other than 12V would indicate that the solenoid isn’t activating properly and is thus not sending the requisite power to starter. The solenoid in this case is defective and requires removal and replacement.