Questions and Answers

Ford Explorer Starter Grinding Q. Mr.Ciulla I own a 1996 Ford Explorer V-8 with 117,000 miles. Recently when I start my car, in the morning or after long periods of engine not on, I hear a noise like the car wants to start but it is already on. Sounds like the cars next to me want to start but won't. I have a kill switch that I push to start the engine and I was wondering could it be that the switch might be getting stuck sometimes after start up?

It won't do this noise continuously just once or twice before I move the car. Or could I have a problem with my starter. Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you...

A. If it is making the noise I think it is, the problem is with the flywheel. The teeth on the flywheel wear out and when the starter goes to engage, it doesn't quite fully engage into the flywheel teeth and a makes a loud, sharp grinding noise, like you tried to start a running engine.

What you can do is remove the starter and look inside at the flywheel. Make a mark, paint dot or crayon, and turn the flywheel with a screwdriver. If there are damaged teeth, and I suspect there are, they will be very evident. If that is the case, you will need to replace the starter and flywheel.