When you turn the key in the ignition, you’re completing a circuit that feeds power from the car battery to the starter. While the starter is a durable auto part that can last for years, wear and tear may cause it to eventually fail. If you know what to watch for, you may be able to spot the signs of failure beforehand—use the guide below to determine whether your starter is failing or broken.

4 Signs You Have a Bad Starter

1. Grinding Noises

 Before a starter fails completely, it usually shows some signs of a problem. If your car makes a grinding noise when you turn the key or when the car is running, the starter may not be disconnecting from the engine gears correctly. If this problem isn’t dealt with, you could cause permanent damage to the starter, requiring a full replacement.

2. Smoke

The starter is channeling a lot of electricity and moving very quickly, so a malfunction may lead to overheated components burning off lubricant. This is a sign of extreme starter deterioration, and you shouldn’t try to drive your car in this state. Instead, call for a tow truck and don’t use the car until this auto part has been replaced.

3. Failure to Start

On the opposite end of the spectrum from grinding noises, a high-pitched whining may indicate that the gears aren’t engaging at all. If the starter won’t connect to the flywheel, it creates a condition known as ‘freewheeling.’ You should seek repairs for the mechanism that engages the starter immediately or permanent damage may result.

4. Oil Saturation

Sometimes, the issue with your starter is caused by other components in your engine. If an oil leak is present, it may drip into the starter, which is located near the bottom of the engine. When the starter gets saturated with oil, it increases the chances of failure and a necessary replacement.

Replacing your car’s starter isn’t cheap, so if you’re looking for a way to save on auto parts, visit Blue Lick Truck & Van Parts in Louisville, KY. This locally owned and operated company offers auto parts like starters, alternators, and other engine components. To learn more about their salvage yard, visit their website, and call (502) 955-1599 with any questions.