Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Mariner and 2010 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

C1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING
- Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?
- Yes: GO to C2 .
- No: INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - 2.5L or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L . TEST the system for normal operation.
C2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE
- Ignition OFF.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B- and S-terminals.
  
  Fig 1: Connecting Remote Starter Switch Between Starter Solenoid B- And S-Terminals
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Engage the starter motor and verify the noise is due to the starter operation.
- Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?
- Yes: GO to C3 .
- No: REFER to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING to continue diagnosis.
C3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR
- Remove the starter motor. Refer to STARTER MOTOR - 2.5L or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L .
- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
- Is the noise due to flexplate or flywheel ring gear tooth damage?
- Yes: INSTALL a new flexplate or flywheel. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - 2.5L or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L . TEST the system for normal operation.
- No: INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - 2.5L or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L . TEST the system for normal operation.