Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

B1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING
- Inspect the starter mounting bolts and brackets for looseness.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?
Yes: GO to B2.

No: INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - CVT or STARTER MOTOR - 6 SPEED . TEST the system for normal operation.
B2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE
- Key in OFF position.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B and S terminals.
  
  Fig 1: Connecting Remote Starter Switch Between Starter Solenoid B & 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 B3.

No: REFER to ENGINE SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION to continue diagnosis.
B3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR
- Remove the starter motor.
- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth. Refer to ENGINE .
- Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?
Yes: INSTALL a new ring gear. REFER to ENGINE . EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - CVT or STARTER MOTOR - 6 SPEED . TEST the system for normal operation.

No: INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - CVT or STARTER MOTOR - 6 SPEED . TEST the system for normal operation.