When Do You Need Starter Replacement For A Subaru Car?

A sudden silence when you turn the key in your Subaru can be an alarming experience for any driver. This dreaded non-start situation often points to a failing starter motor, a vital component for getting your car’s engine running smoothly every time. The cost of a starter replacement for a Subaru car can vary widely based on the model, labor rates, and the quality of the new part you select. Understanding the various signs and symptoms of a bad starter can help you prepare for this important repair process.

Signs Your Subaru Needs Starter Replacement Now

A failing starter motor frequently exhibits several clear warning signs long before it stops working entirely for you. Drivers may hear a rapid clicking sound coming from under the hood when they try to start their car. This sound indicates that the starter solenoid clicks but the motor does not engage to turn the engine. You may also notice a slow or sluggish cranking of the engine when you turn the key in the ignition. This slow turn shows the starter motor is receiving a weak electrical current or becomes worn out over time.

How to Diagnose a Failing Starter in Subaru

Diagnosing a failing starter motor requires a careful process of elimination to ensure a correct repair happens. You should first check your car's battery and all related terminal connections for corrosion or a loose fit. A weak battery often mimics the symptoms of a bad starter, which makes a battery test your first step. A qualified mechanic will use a multimeter to check the voltage and amperage going to the starter motor itself. This electrical test helps confirm whether the starter motor receives enough power to properly function or not.

Steps to Replace Starter on Subaru Models

Replacing a starter motor on a Subaru involves several precise steps that must be done in a specific order. The mechanic will first disconnect the battery's negative terminal to prevent any accidental electrical shorts during the repair. They next locate the starter motor, which is usually found on the driver's side of the engine near the transmission. A mechanic removes the mounting bolts and electrical connections that hold the old starter in place. They then install the new starter motor, reconnect all the wiring, and properly tighten the new mounting bolts to finish the job correctly.

Common Mistakes During Subaru Starter Installation

People make several common mistakes during a Subaru starter installation that cause future problems and other issues. One major error is failing to properly clean the mounting surface where the starter motor sits on the engine block. A dirty surface can prevent the new starter from receiving a strong electrical ground connection, which causes a failure to operate. Another common mistake is over-tightening the mounting bolts for the starter motor. This action can strip the bolt threads on the engine block, which makes the starter loose and creates a bigger problem for you.

Get Subaru Starter Replacement Service from Our Experts

Do not let a failing starter motor leave you stranded on the side of the road with your car. We at Empire Subaru offer a professional Subaru starter replacement service in Huntington, NY that provides an affordable solution for you. We know the specific electrical demands of your Subaru's engine and deliver reliable repairs every single time. Our team of certified Subaru electrical specialists in Huntington, NY possess the necessary tools and knowledge to fix your vehicle correctly the first time. Contact Empire Subaru today to schedule an appointment for your car.