Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

Normal Operation

Under normal operation, when the starter solenoid is energized, it engages the starter drive into the flexplate ring gear and closes the solenoid contacts, allowing the starter motor to start the engine. The PCM will disengage the starter motor based on engine running (rpm threshold met), a set crank time has been exceeded or the ignition switch has been turned to the OFF position.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Starter motor mounting

- Starter motor mounting bolts

- Starter motor drive

- Flexplate ring gear

- Starter motor

PINPOINT TEST B : UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

B1 CHECK THE STARTER MOTOR MOUNTING

- Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.

Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to B2.

No
REINSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor .

B2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE

- Ignition OFF.

- Connect a remote starter switch between starter motor ("S" terminal) C197B-1, circuit CDC25 (BN/GN) and starter motor ("B" terminal) C197A-1, circuit SDC02 (RD).





- Engage the starter motor and verify that the noise is due to the starter operation.

Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?

Yes
GO to B3.

No
REFER to Engine to continue the diagnosis.

B3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR

- Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor .

- Inspect the flexplate ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.

Is the noise due to flexplate ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a new flexplate. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.