How To Identify A Broken Lexus Starter Motor

While Lexus vehicles are built to last using high-quality parts and craftsmanship, nothing lasts forever. This even applies to luxury automobiles. On average, you can expect anywhere between 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles from your basic starter motor. If your vehicle is a Lexus, however, you will likely enjoy the opportunity for an extended life expectancy where most things are considered.

If you’ve had your Lexus for a long time, you may have to question whether or not you have a broken Lexus starter motor. How do you know if the starter motor is the problem? How do you know if it needs to be replaced? The following are some general signs and/or symptoms of a failing and/or bad starter motor.

Remember that when you need repairs on your Lexus, or want to purchase one of these luxury vehicles, contact the professionals at Prestige Lexus.

Now, on to the signs and symptoms of a bad starter motor.

When Starting the Motor – You Smell or See Smoke

No one wants to smell or see smoke coming from their Lexus engine.

But, because electricity powers the mechanical system that controls the starter, overheating may occur. Even after a car’s engine has ignited, there is the possibility that power being supplied to the starter motor or starter will not shut off like it's supposed to. If this happens, from underneath the engine, you will likely smell or see smoke. The cause for this could be an ignition switch problem, blown fuse, short-circuit, or something else. As soon as you notice this problem, a certified mechanic should be contacted.

When Trying to Start the Vehicle – A Grinding Noise

Let's face it, grinding is never a sound you want to hear coming from a car.

Similar to the situation in the next paragraph, when flywheel-connected starter gears start to wear out, this is a common warning sign. However, inside the starter motor, this grinding may also occur. You can't fix this easily, in either case. The best logical step is to call a mechanic if you notice this symptom. The engine’s flywheel could eventually be damaged if the sound continues without replacement. That could lead to a pricey mechanic bill.

The Motor Won't Spin Even Though the Starter Engages

The motor just doesn't seem to want to turn over even though you can hear the starter activate when you turn the ignition switch. Sometimes mechanical in nature, starter issues can be due to the flywheel-connected gears. Possibly a gear has become dislodged against the flywheel or has stripped. The engine won’t turn over, either way, so you'll need to have a certified mechanic replace your starter.

No Engine Turnover

You turn your key. Nothing happens. This is the most common starter problem. Possibly the motor has burned out, or the starter solenoid. Then again, a dead battery or an electrical issue may be to blame. Multiple issues may even exist. It's smart to have a mechanic check out electrical components, the ignition system, and the starter.

Do you own a Lexus that needs a bit of special attention? At Prestige Lexus, we have you covered. Click here to access information about our award-winning parts and service department. If you prefer, you can also schedule service online or phone us at 844-265-1187.