Starter Grinding Noise - Diagnosis and Repair - Stop Making Repeat Repairs

What's grinding when the engine is started? Is it simply a bad starter? This vehicle just had one put in a few months ago...In this video, we show you how to properly diagnose a starter noise so you can fix the vehicle right the first time. Enjoy!
Honda Acura

[@paulspenard7993]

Thanks for the great instructional video! My 2010 Corolla sounded like the starter was hanging up. Grinding the teeth on the gears. End of story, it was a really dirty ignition key tumbler that would not let the key snap back fast enough from the starting position!! It would hesitate. Cleaned with WD and throttle body cleaner and compressed air, problem solved.

[@darrylhowe1465]

I agree that there are times where an aftermarket part is a practical necessity; however, I also believe that we ENABLE and ENCOURAGE the aftermarket manufactures to produce very poor quality products when we technicians fix their errors or make modifications to the vehicle in order to make their junk work. What happens when (years later) that starter fails. The next technician will likely use the bolt with the extra washers and then, following factory torque specifications, the bolt inexplicably pulls the threads from the transmission because it was not fully engaged. Food for thought ... Simply return incorrectly fitting parts and, if necessary, find a different source for your aftermarket parts. I do appreciate your videos. I thank you for your attention to detail and the quality to your approach in diagnostic work.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Darryl, yeh, you're right. I'll keep that in mind for next time :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@hughkoontz2166]

Cool use of the boroscope! I recently bought a much cheaper version that connects to my phone. Amazing how clear the picture is. They've come a long way.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Hugh, thanks for watching! Yeh, it's a fun tool to use. I really enjoy getting to take it out and put it to use! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@alexbarquin9]

I just changed mine. The factory starter motor was the external solenoid type and I've replaced it with the new internal solenoid type one. So far I'm happy with it and it's far more quieter with the new starter. Don't know because it's new or the design of it. Good video. Keep up the good job 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Alexbarquin9, thanks for watching! Glad it all worked out for you! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@alexschmidbauer3671]

Great vid Mike! For future reference, the ring gear is actually welded onto the torque converter . If the teeth were worn it would need a new ring gear welded on or converter . Haven’t seen it on a Honda yet though, the teeth are pretty beefy.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Alex, that would be why I couldn't find the toothed ring on the flexplate haha! Glad they weren't worn out :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mikechiodetti4482]

Sometimes you have to add a "spacer" of some kind to make it work. It looked like the longer nose made for a better engagement with the ring gear. Glad to see your doing well. I'm looking forward to seeing more videos.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mike, thanks for watching! This one did not include shims or state that it needed them.Have a good one! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@user-fd6uf9km9b]

NO !!!! Disconnect the battery at all times ! When you are removing an electrical component.

[@Tsmace33]

Oh fucking quit it. It's 12v at maybe 1 amp. It won't hurt him and worst thing is he'll blow a fuse. 12v can't even penatrate the skin. You can grab both terminals and nothing with happen.

[@bluejayoutpost9170]

Had to modify a few starters in the day. Machining sometimes is off so to speak.Aftermarket parts have become a lot of today's reality..so we do the job to the best of our ability..Stay Swell and keep..em..coming 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Bluejay Outpost, we have to deal with what we have :) thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@marlinyoung1606]

When we did starters on those honda we always used OEM other brand just never lasted. And just for future reference there is a cover on the bottom like 4 bolts and you can get a great look at the flywheel teeth

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Marlin, great tip, thanks...and thanks for watching! :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@bernardaflores1720]

I normally prefer to find out who makes the OEM part and purchase that brand. For instance, Bosch makes the stuff for my Volvo's and normally just purchase that brand. Great video!

[@GoTechTraining]

Yeh, that's usually a pretty good way to get your hands on some quality parts! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@ozzstars_cars]

Another excellent tutorial. I personally don't wear any jewelry like watches or rings when working on a car. A ring can become a fuse if the red battery positive wire touches your ring and the ring accidentally contacts ground. Finger fireworks are not good. Save the sparks for July 4th. 😉

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Glen, thanks man! You're right. When I was in the shop full--time I always took my ring off. I've also seen people wear silicon rings. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@iamgiatho]

@@GoTechTraining this makes me lol I used to pretend my Dad's abundance of rainbow o-rings were wedding bands 😂😂😂

[@ismarmeskovic]

Yup aftermarket and reman gamble every day.Good job Mike,Cheers!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Ismar, thanks for watching! Yes, some are better than others, that's for sure. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@russelallen5342]

Great video. I would run the bolt in until snug and if threads extended past where it stopped, I would cut needed amount off the bolt. Also, as a rule of thumb, the diameter of the bolt is the maximum holding power, 5/16" bolt, 5/16" length of threads. cheers!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Russel, thanks for watching! This specific bolt had a smooth shaft, only about 1/3 threaded so I would have needed to measure to get an accurate reading. As far as cutting though, that's so permanent...what about the next starter...if it gets one? If that one's ear is a larger thickness the bolt may be too short. I believe the washers are the way to go, because next time they can be increased, decreased or whatever needs to happen without having to change the OEM bolt. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@jonka1]

@@GoTechTraining I agree.

[@josetamayo4340]

Yeah happened to me,jx 35,starter just went dead,replaced it from autozone,1 year warranty, installed first try miss the flywheel,check everything,,looks good.Its been happening once in a while,sometimes once in a week for like 6 months now,maybe it's the starter refurbished,,planning to replace it again this summer,flywheel looks good,checked it underneath,there's a small window, 3inch by 5inch,thanks

[@Billmc997]

I have a similar situation. I bought a new aftermarket starter for my 2013 Honda Accord and I noticed there’s a small gap between the 14mm bolts and the engine housing after tightening the bolts. I turned on my car and it make a loud grinding noise. I doubt the washers will make a different but I’m willing to try it before buying another new starter. Thanks for the video.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey B C, good luck!!! :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Jangus]

Solid advice. Just diagnosed a noisy starter today and verified the flywheel was ok. A couple weeks ago I saw a coworker leave a wrench on a crank bolt and sheer off the dowel pin on the crankshaft.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching! I bet that turned out to be an expensive repair. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Jangus]

GoTech It wasn’t good but not TOO bad. He got lucky.

[@richardostrowski6420]

Great video on the perils of using after market parts. OEM only.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Richard, thanks for watching! Sometimes it's just not in the cards for some customers to pay potentially multiple times more for a part to get OEM. There are quality aftermarket parts out there, unfortunately the first starter wasn't one of them haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@richardostrowski6420]

@@GoTechTraining Mike, I completely agree with the cost of parts being a huge factor in repair. My only concern is is how much money you, as the tech, are going to lose with repeated part failures and losing money on warranty repairs, unless the parts house reimburse you. Also, the customer could start to doubt your skills with repeated failures. I know, it is a slippery slope.

[@vinceperry9145]

Another Awesome Video, Thanks Mike!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Vince, thanks for watching!!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@jeremyanthony9300]

Excellent video again Mike.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@RG-wy1ol]

Awesome video very HELPFUL thanks for making this video 👍🏽👍🏽.

[@wyattoneable]

All good points Mike. It sure sounded better when you were finished.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Wyatt, thanks for watching! Washers behind the head of the bolt for you? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@wyattoneable]

@@GoTechTraining As long as there are enough threads to hold the item, yes, all day long.

[@johnnylee948]

Another great video Mike !

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you Johnny!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@ZDriver1996]

**Update after replacement problem solved, it was a bad new starter** I installed a Denso starter in my 2005 acura TSX 2.4liter engine 8 months ago and it is exhibiting the same signs as the Honda 2.4liter in your video. It runs perfect once started but sounds just like the Honda in your video when trying to start. So after 8 months this issue started. No engine codes, battery and alternator test fine and less than 1 year old. Spark plugs less than 15k miles, but original coils. Just ordered the new starter and going to dig back in to see what's going on. Annoyed that i changed the starter ahead of time so it wouldn't die on me at an inconvenient time. My original wasn't bad but had 15 years and 150,000 miles on it. Now this new one seems to be giving me issues. I'll update

[@jrproductions9191]

Update ?

[@ZDriver1996]

@@jrproductions9191 been running fine . Maybe 15,000-20,000 miles on it since installing

[@willispower9493]

You mentioned a couple times that the bolt doesn't go as far into the bell housing as it did before because of the 2 washers but that's not the case. If you added a washer to the bolt and installed the old starter the bolt would not go as deep. But in this case all you did was make the new starter housing as thick as the old starter housing by adding a couple washers so the bolt thread engagement will be the same with the new starter and washers as it was with the old starter with the thicker flange.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Willis Power, you're right. Not sure what my thinking was in the moment on that, haha! Thanks for the info :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@acarlX]

I have found that with DIY wrenching over the years, it is best to remove the failed part and set it next to its replacement counterpart. Carefully inspect and measure for any differences. Sometimes there are slight differences of 1/4 to 1/2 inch which can cause all sorts of problems if the slightly different part gets into the wrong engine. Back in 1963 when Ford introduced its lightweight block casting for the 289 V8, the nose on the starter for a manual transmission was about a 1/4 inch less in length versus the nose of the starter for an automatic transmission car. You could install the automatic transmission starter in a manual transmission car and not cause a problem with the extra starter nose length. But if you installed the shorter nosed manual transmission starter in an automatic transmission car, you would grind the flywheel ring gear teeth because of improper engagement between the starter pinion and flywheel ring gear. Suddenly a minor problem turned into extra labor and expense. A subtle difference that catches a long of restoration mechanics today on those old Ford engines.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Acarl1018 X, thanks for watching! Yes, a comparative test can be super beneficial! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mvxyetti9262]

Went through three starters already and still no luck guy at the shop said flywheel looks fine 3rd and current starter is straight from Honda and still no luck

[@jgeorges3061]

Mike, you are AWESOME good info as always. cheeeeeers

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey J Georges, thanks for watching!!! :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Orange-yp9bl]

Does warranty cover a ( what I'm going to call a faulty starter from production) ... I have a 2017 Honda accord V6 .... and a grinding noise occurs right before car starts ... happens 2 or 3 a month ....

[@lovetolearn5253]

Lol, love the thought process on the haircut comment. "Your starting to look homeless" uh! Is that a sign (get a haircut or get out). That's some good diag work.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Lovetolearn52, thanks for watching! I did end up getting a haircut, so I'm still allowed to live in "my wife's house" haha! ;) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Fixdecay]

I have a grinding sound again with my new replacement starter on my 96 300zx. The original starter would grind and chewed up badly about 1/3 of my flywheel. The flywheel and clutch was replaced with a new starter. (Possible rebuild $298) Now it is happening again. The mechanic told me to turn the key slower. Sounds like BS to me. Any chance it could be caused by a bad positive cable or ground? What to do?

[@markferraro5250]

great job Mike all the best to you

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Mark, you as well! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@JayAtlarep]

One thing I noticed that you’re wearing a ring while working on starter and negative term isnt disconnected. Is it not dangerous?

[@FixItPhillip]

Good job brotha as always. God bless -FixItPhillip

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey FixitPhillio, thanks man! Appreciate it! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@antwonhughes7121]

Hey brother thanks for the info that was really good stuff 👌

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Antwon, thanks man!!! :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@hmerced3668]

just like Mr. Garcia, I also bought a new starter and it made grinding noise, removed it and got another replacement, and that one as well is making the same noise. Can you help?

[@steveh2]

Thanks for this. It would be good to say where those starters came from. OEM or aftermarket? Parts quality being such a major auto repair industry problem it is good to have the discussion. In fact you could probably do a whole video on your experience with parts quality.... Thanks again for your hard work making these.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey S Herbert, they were both aftermarket new. Yeh, you're right on being able to a do a whole video on that subject! Someday! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@geraldburke600]

I have an accurate 2005 I just have my engine replace but when he installed the starter it made a grinding noise but they also did a intake manifold repair He said I need a new starter for Japan would that be the cause

[@MillionaireCCakesATL]

Very educational. Thanks!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@bennygreene1421]

I have a noise that's either the starter or alternator. The noise is more noticeable from 5mph up to 30 mph. Is that more likely an alternator since the noise is heard more as I pull out and accelerate?

[@SmittySmithsonite]

Great vid as always, Mike. Having to call a customer immediately after an install is never fun. Best to avoid that ... Breaking a bellhousing is even worse, though. I could just see someone ramming those bolts in with an impact! "If it don't fit, MAKE IT!" 😂 Bad day indeed!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Smitty, thanks man! Yeh, a broken ear would have been a horrible day for sure!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mikejohnson465]

Great Video Mike!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mike, thanks!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@johnaclark1]

It's more money but Denso for those things every time. No exceptions. Same with alternators. Otherwise you do the job every few months. Just my experience anyway. Glad to see the videos coming, though!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Johnauclark1, sometimes the customer doesn't approve the premium version. We'll see how this one holds up. I was thoroughly disappointed in the first one and that will change my thoughts on purchasing from them again. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@johnaclark1]

@@GoTechTraining Yeah, I've run into that too. That's when I advise I won't replace I for free WHEN it fails. It may have warranty so they'll get another starter/alternator for free but labor will cost them. They'll soon learn the Denso is less expensive.

[@mariafernandamartinez1971]

Would love if you came out with more videos especially more diagnoses videos

[@GoTechTraining]

Sounds good! Got a few in the works! Stay tuned!

[@patelvivek4888]

U got lucky with Flywheel Teeth. Used Boroscope very nicely 👍👍

[@GoTechTraining]

I was pleasantly surprised when they were ok. :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@baxrok2.]

Nice job Mike!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you so much! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@lesliedsouza4077]

Interesting show & comments, Mike - Good tips & detail check of what would be expected to be, a simple procedure? Maybe do an analysis of the faulty starter, that was replaced? Why did it go wrong? Integrated solenoid, winding deterioration? Yes, at 13 years age of vehicle, OEM parts are not necessarily available. Then it's non OEM roulette? Win some - Lose some? :)

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Leslie, thank you very much! I would, but I need to send it back...I want my $$$ back on that one. Yes, it does seem to be roulette haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@lesliedsouza4077]

@@GoTechTraining Thank you for your response, Mike - Just wondered about a multimeter check of solenoid ohms? There's another common test - Can't remember what's called - They kinda pump volts into it & check for earth leakage?

[@armandonika]

Leslie DSouza insulation test...

[@lesliedsouza4077]

@@armandonika Thankyou - Now I remember - It's aka "Mega" = Megaohm? Nowadays multimeters can do that test too. Back in the day - needed special, separate device? Not sure if these tests would diag a faulty, starter earth? Any case would eventually, lead to mechanical chewing of pinion/ ring gear teeth?

[@Arounadabout]

Please watch my video and tell me if it's probably starter motor problem. I fitted a brand new starter motor but every time I start the car it is very slow but only first thing of a morning after overnight park , otherwise it starts great all day and night. After fitting the new unit it and reconnecting the battery terminals I saw a flame at the solenoid even scorching it and bad sparks at the battery terminals, turned out the wires were touching each other the gap in between was so small which is why I hadn't realised they were touching . I'm not sure if what happened is the result of the problem it is having now. I.e damaged solenoid or starter. Before replacing the starter which failed without warning the car did not have this starting problem The battery is brand new and tested and working thanks

[@Oofsmageroo]

there's a inspection plate at the bottom of the engine... lets you see the flywheel teeth easily. 2 10mm bolts.

[@GoTechTraining]

Great to know! Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@vincerodaPaxMafiosa]

@@GoTechTraining he is basically telling you that for a mechanic you’re not really knowledgeable.

[@salvadorgutierrezr5914]

You to take care, and thanks for the video, Mike 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Salvador, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@smokinwithskruggs]

when it comes to Honda starters. Denso is the way to go. Got burnt to many times using aftermarket. Great video though.

[@Turts_McGurts]

i send 1/2 inch breaker bars flying across the shop all the time... i dont see the issue...

[@GoTechTraining]

I bet your co-workers love you John! haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@iamgiatho]

Fun times 😂😂

[@oscardonoso385]

buen video. Cuando volveràn los videos en español?

[@mustangmagik]

I have this issue. But the starter test good on the bench test. Could it still just be the starter??

[@dijikid]

I don't know if this has been mentioned in the comments but there is a service bulletin on this problem.tsb 16002 (starter grinds or spins at startup) the fix is to install a new starter with a special new gasket or spacer and then move the flywheel around one hole to expose new teeth.

[@KenLyns]

Thread engagement with the washers would've been the same, since the washers just took up the missing thickness on the starter flange.

[@GoTechTraining]

Haha KenLyns, yeh, you're right...I should have thought about that!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@tinkerwest]

In my opinion, the center of the flex plate should have been inspected for possible cracks. I've come across a couple instances where starter noise was due to crack(s) around the flex plate mounting bolts.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Tinkerwest, thanks for watching! That's a really good point! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@patrickkitur5160]

Thanks mike watching from Africa

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Patrick, thanks for watching!!! Hope all is well in Africa :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@patrickkitur5160]

You inspired me every day continue making more video s

[@PeteDunn154]

Great vid, but… assuming you put the washer on to make the facing the same size as the old one, it will have exactly the same amount of threads inside the bell housing. The bolt bottomed out so that is obviously as far as it would go.

[@Arounadabout]

Hi, greetings from the UK. Thanks for the great video, well spoken Thanks !

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mark, thank you very much! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@jonka1]

@17:23 I believe your thinking is confused about the depth of the bolt in its threads. You say it is 3mm less but the original starter was 3mm thicker. You have restored the bolt penetration with washers so the situation is as before.

[@felixalicea9326]

My car is making a grinding noise I changed the starter and it’s still happening my next step is probably the flexplate but I don’t wanna spend money for nothing is there any other thing that can make your car make a grinding noise on the driver side of the vehicle

[@jonka1]

You said that you saw nothing wrong with the starter you took off. The shiny areas on the ring gear are typical of too much depth of engagement of the starter pinion. Did you look at the body of the drive to see if it had corresponding marks from the ring gear teeth? If so it speaks of slight wear in the stop for the pinion as it was silent when fitted.

[@iamgiatho]

Very handy, thank you.

[@manuelsalvatierra2940]

Great tips throughout this video, don't matter if it's long. Once you shave people will wonder if you ever had a beard. Just like grizzly adams, Mike Becker DID have a beard.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Manuel, thanks for watching! Hahah yeh, good thing the beard is documented in video evidence so I have proof!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@thebaldmechanichardatheari1124]

Washers are fine. Good video

[@GoTechTraining]

I'm curious what the crowd sourced response will be on this. We'll see. I've used washer in the past like this...just feels a bit like a hack haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@RaduMichael]

I would like to know the cause of the grinding noise,,,my car has only 30k miles on it and sometimes the grinding is there sometimes it's not. Should I worry ? The car starts always though. 1 start in 10 I hear the grinding. 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer, 1.6 MIVEC 117HP.

[@Celeste300]

The bolt has just as many thread inside the bell housing as it did before. The washers are compensating forthe thinner starter material, which is not threadead...

[@gonzgarr1592]

I'm always happy when i'm wrenching be safe

[@GoTechTraining]

So true Gonz, so true! Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@topgun3753]

Regarding the starter bolt the way I see it is you have four options use washers/spacers, cut the bolt on the threaded end, replace the bolt with one that fits properly or exchange starter with one that matches the one removed. BUT, I would have NEVER installed the replacement starter without testing it first at the very least I would have tested it before reinstalling the intake manifold. If the replacement starter had been DOA... Just saying.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey TopGun, thanks for watching! Which option would you choose? That would have been very disappointing if it was DOA...glad it was, haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@AllAutomotive1410]

Oh reman starters are a challenge at times. I would have just ordered another one and checked the bolt issue. Must be that one got sandblasted to much. lol Good video. Keep it up mister.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Matt, the sad thing is that both of these starters were listed as "new". I'm not a huge fan of remans, run into way to many issues in the past. Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mark.r8900]

Hi, would a bad starter cause a sudden stall at a red light? And cranks but no start afterwards? Thanks

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mark.r, no I don't think so. If the starter were bad I don't think it would still crank over. Also, a starter isn't engaged after the vehicle is running so I don't think it's the cause of your stalling condition. Any trouble codes? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@WPHSBandGeek]

I replaced my starter in 2017. Now I’m back to having on and off cranking issues. We thought it was the battery but then it’s been working for for the last 7 months. Now last week it died on me. “Died”. At the 3rd or 4th attempt it finally cranked up. Last night I parked. Turned it off. Then turned it back on to then go around to my parking lot… parked again and shut off the car. I realized I still had a lot of back up space so I went to try and start the car. Started up after the 3rd attempt.

[@ChengSAE]

Those starter for the k series motor always goes out. The brushes wear out quick. Dont matter oem or not. Four brushes. One may be brittle and fails the starter's tourqe.

[@metroecco7908]

my Acura TL startup sounds like it struggles to turn on kinda like a sucking noise but nit really hard to describe but it never fails to turn on. mechanic says its normal and how my engine sounds like

[@securityguy]

If that starter was obtained from your local auto shop then that's the problem. It's well documented that sometimes aftermarket starters have incorrect pinion gears that don't mesh with the OEM drive plate properly.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Ronnie, this one was purchased aftermarket via one of my favorite places to shop. The starter that was in the car is no longer for sale...I think there's a reason for that :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@steveo782812]

@@GoTechTraining Would that favorite place be Autozone (not a sponsor)? I noticed the brake cleaner on the hood. LOL

[@badvlad9861]

So you don't immediately disconnect the battery at the terminals and cover the battery with cardboard ? You leave your metal tools hanging over the battery ? Do you keep a plastic bottle full of gasoline in your front shirt pocket ? I'm very interested in what mechanic/auto school you went to that did not emphasize the detriment of either one of the first two issues ? ? ? ?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Bad Vlad, you're right, it is not good practice to leave things by the battery or not disconnect it. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@simonthegreat543]

Great video. Thanks Mike. Enjoy the hair cut!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Simon, thanks for watching! I will haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@evieemaya88]

4:50 Great video, wonder if you or anyone could shed some light on my question. Your always told disconnect the battery when changing a starter, but what happens if your using a battery memory saver connected to a 12v battery? Are you technically working as if you have not disconnected the battery and is it dangerous? Thanks any help appreciated.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hello, The wire from the battery to the starter is normally un-fused and can carry a lot of current. So if the starter power wire were to touch ground with the battery connected, it could cause a lot of damage from the large amount of current flowing and maybe even start a fire. Most battery memory savers are not only fused, but they provide a small amount of amperage (maybe 2 amps compared to the battery's 500-700 amps) just enough to keep computer memory. If you were touch the cable to ground with a memory save attached it would either blow the fuse connection or not be as dangerous due to the small amount of electrical energy applied. I hope this helps ~Ryan

[@juanmoningka9027]

Helpful. Thanks

[@nicknicu1787]

That's why I push for OEM new each time every time! Yeah,you might lose some people that want to change it for half the price and will go somewhere else, but I get to do the job once! Not twice, not 3 times.... Great video Mike...or should I say young Chuck Norris?! 😅😅😅

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Nick, thanks for watching! I will need to practice my roundhouse kick I guess! It's a tough sell on a 100K plus 13 year old WI vehicle to pay 2 or 3 times the price for an OEM. OEM is the best way to go...but there are good alternatives in the aftermarket. Unfortunately, the brand I chose first was not one of them...haha! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@andresvalbuena2252]

I have a 2013 honda accord coupe v6 3.5L and it makes the same exact noise the only thing is it doesn’t start up, i have to keep pushing the start button till it turns on normally. I changed the starter twice and keeps doing it, any Idea what could it be? Thanks

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Andres, are you installing a quality starter? What is the condition of the ring gear that starter engages onto? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@JAZZYboy277]

I had the same issues. Change the starter and the same problem. I haven't seen it happen after I tighten up my battery terminals

[@firstlast---]

I remember the first time I disconnected the battery on a Honda, took me an hour to get the radio code. Memory savers are the way to go, but whatever you do don't get a cheap one. Took me a while to realize why the instrument cluster completely failed after battery changes, there must have been a short in the memory saver that made it blow fuses. Luckily it was only a fuse each time, but the frustration it caused me and the customers made me smash my memory saver into smithereens. So much time and money lost because of that thing.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey First Last, pulling the battery on any modern car can be a hassle :( I do need to invest in a decent memory saver, for sure. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@nosliwttam77]

It takes less than 5 minutes to get the radio code. I have the Honda website pinned on my browser taskbar. How did it take an hour? You get the serial number from the radio and put it along with the VIN and it gives you the code.

[@firstlast---]

@@nosliwttam77 Actually getting the code was easy once I called the right dealer. The hour came from the process of digging through all the junk in the glovebox, sifting through the owners manual, finding a dealer that was open at that time, and then they had to explain to me how to get the code out of the radio then I had to call them back. Prior to that incident I had no idea hondas would lock the radio out and I was unprepared. These days I have a proper memory saver so jumping through hoops after changing batteries is a non issue for me.

[@nosliwttam77]

@@firstlast--- if your memory saver fails you can Google honda radio code for the web site. Turn ignition on. Hold 1 and 6 buttons. Press power button on radio while holding 1 and 6. The serial number will show on screen. Enter serial and VIN on website and it will give you the code.

[@firstlast---]

@@nosliwttam77 Thank you for that info I'll keep that in mind. These days I work at a dealer so most of the time I'm only working on one brand lol

[@ejmagras]

thanks for your video

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching Ejmargras! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@olatundeaboaba]

I drive a 2009 Honda Accord, my starter went bad 3 months ago and I have since replaced it. The thing is just 2days ago, I started hearing the grinding noise from the engine bay especially on cold starts. I will try replacing the starter if it continues.

[@tomiepowell6513]

Same here Problem is you can't get a refund on electrical parts I'm praying they let me exchange it for the More expensive one they had in stock

[@slappyclappy7781]

Keeps mentioning the flex plate even though the ring gear is on the torque converter XD at least you had the flywheel right props to that I guess

[@SuperRockon4ever]

If using aftermarket part it is very important to match it to the OEM or that is what you get. I guess lessons learned. Maybe experience will help you in time?

[@GoTechTraining]

I'm not sure what you're trying to get at here? An aftermarket part was installed, failed, and replaced. How is that realted to "experiance will help you in time"? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@larryf2440]

Hi Mike, Great vid as always. Great mod with washers. Just one comment, I would have measured depth of bolt hole to see if bottom out to be sure of bolt length. Hope that made sense. Other than that Great Job as always

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Larry, thanks for watching! I hate having to "mod" things...but it worked. Sure, hole length vs bolt length would be a good measurement. My thinking was...the bolt fit before, didn't now...what changed? The starter :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@larryf2440]

Mike, You did the right thing. I have run into this many of times with parts. (50 years, old school) Mod has been made on part but did not research and come to find out manufacture used 2 different length bolts on assembly. Worked ok on old part but on yours the bolt was too long. Instructions should say that a spacer may be needed. You as a good mechanic you see something doesn’t fit right. So you investigate. Supper Great Job. Till next vid, be safe.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Larry! If something doesn't seem right, there's a reason :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@brandenshervington3817]

Thanks... subscribed

[@misterbulger]

My buddy got a ratchet between his watch and a bus bar. The metal band was glowing and now he has a fake Rolex branded into his wrist. Such a gnarly scar.

[@GoTechTraining]

That sounds brutal! ~Mike

[@roberthogue6797]

I would also just add washers. You haven’t lost any holding power. You had to take up the space left after using all available threads. (Unless you use a ton more spacers than the remaining bolt sticking out after it tightened up the first time.)

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Robert, thanks for watching! Glad to hear you'd do the same :) Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@alexandercahoulan6583]

why not just unplug the positive and negative battery cable? why even risk it? especially when wearing a ring?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Alexander, when done properly, the risk isn't that great. Like I suggested in the video, if you don't feel comfortable with it, then un-hook it. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@hondafo50]

@@GoTechTraining you wouldn't be my instructor. Its such an easy thing to do. Your garage is open what if a cat runs in there and messes with the rag, what if the rag falls off when your not looking, what if you accidentally trip and ground out? There are soooo many what ifs for you not to take 10 seconds of your time because you think you are a senior instructor.

[@loganwarner9985]

The starter makes that noise but starts Everytime on first try and only happens after sitting for at least a couple hrs. Any thoughts?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Logan, could still be the starter on there. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@lidia6314]

What is your brand and model of borescope please?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Lidia, check out Oasis Scientific. That's where I bought it from. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Chimi1993]

My mustang just started doing this😞now im struggling taking starter off its stuck behind my headers what a pain

[@jonboz7585]

Very informative! My 2012 Honda Fit has 95K miles on it. In COLD weather I get a momentary grinding noise during startup that goes away for the rest of the day. Never happens during warm weather. What could be causing this? Is it a serious issue? Thanks for your vids. I’m a new subscriber, now.

[@jwreck5281]

Bad vtc solenoid. They are known for it it.

[@jwreck5281]

Nothing with the starting system

[@halleffect1]

having to add a few washers, meh, easy fix. worst starter i saw was on an old old GM with 350 SBC. that thing screamed when cranking. the outer mounting bolt wasn't doing much since the hole it threaded into was in an ear that broke off the engine block. yes, the engine had to be replaced to fix the problem. we junked the car.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Halleffect1, that sounds terrible! What happened that the ear broke off!? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mikeromeo5755]

Much obliged 🙂

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mike, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@ventureelect]

dont worry about living in the shop, they take both the shop and the house.

[@GoTechTraining]

Oh man, I hope not! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@ramongarcia6939]

I bought a new starter and when I turn my car on it make the grinding noise does that mean I got a faulty new starter?

[@Genesis-ef1jt]

Did you ever figure out the problem? I'm having the same issue

[@regal953]

Before i put a replacement starter in I always make sure it works and if it does then that pinion teeth gets a coating of copper based anti seize lube like the mounting bolts and then it works quietly...You got the wrong starter, you need to double check part numbers, wasted labor and time..

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Regal953, you're not the only one who commented about making sure it works first...sad that we have to think that way, right?? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@seahad4744]

during covid, id get my hair cut in my barbers house haha. also thanks for the vid. my car is doing this D: