A car starter is an electrical device that helps turn on an engine. Once the engine is running, the starter disengages. A starter needs to be reliable because if it fails, you won’t be going anywhere. That’s why it’s important to keep up with maintenance and troubleshoot potential problems.
Starter History
Early cars had to be started by hand, which was a difficult and sometimes dangerous task. In 1911, Charles Kettering invented the first electric car starter, which made starting a car much easier and safer. Today, car starters are found in virtually all cars and trucks. They use either a key or a button to activate the starter motor, which then turns the engine over and starts the vehicle.
Why is the Starter So Important to Your Car?
The starter is typically located near the battery and consists of a small motor that turns a gear. This gear engages the flywheel, which in turn helps to start the engine. There are a few different ways that starters can fail. One is that the solenoid, which is responsible for connecting the battery to the starter, can fail. This can happen if the solenoid gets corrosion on it or if the electrical connection between the battery and the starter is loose. Another way that starters can fail is by simply wearing out over time. The gears in the starter can strip, or the armature can burn out.
Maintain Your Starter
It’s generally recommended that you have your starter serviced every 30,000 miles or so. This involves a visual inspection as well as a cleaning and testing of the unit. The main thing you want to avoid is rust, so if you live in an area where there’s salt on the roads in winter, it’s especially important to have your car starter checked regularly. There are a few things you can do to help prolong the life of your starter. First, make sure that the battery is in good condition and is properly charged. Second, keep the starter clean and free of debris. And finally, have the starter inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic.
The starter is responsible for getting the engine started. However, it can eventually wear out and may need to be replaced. If your starter isn’t functioning properly, then it may be time to take it in for service. By taking good care of your starter, you can help ensure that your car will provide years of trouble-free service.
