Your car’s starter is a critically important component. It’s the sparkplug, the kick-starter, the prime mover of your vehicle. When it fails, so does your commute, your road trip, your quick run to the grocery store. That’s why it’s crucial to treat your car’s starter with the care and respect it deserves, ensuring it stays healthy for as long as possible.

You see, the starter does a tough job. Every time you turn the ignition key, your car’s starter has to generate enough torque to set the engine’s pistons in motion. This process can take a toll on the starter over time, leading to wear and tear that could eventually result in failure. So, how do you prevent this from happening? The answer lies in vigilant preventative maintenance.

Moisture is a major enemy of the starter. If water manages to get into the starter motor, it could cause severe damage. Therefore, always ensure your vehicle is well protected from the elements, especially during rainy seasons or when washing your car. If your car is parked outside, consider investing in a good quality car cover. Besides protecting the starter, this will also safeguard other components of your vehicle from the detrimental effects of moisture and harsh weather conditions.

Regular cleaning is another useful practice in starter maintenance. Dust and dirt can accumulate over time, causing friction and heat that can harm your starter. A clean starter is a happy starter, so take the time to have it cleaned periodically. However, cleaning your starter isn’t something you should attempt yourself unless you’re mechanically inclined. The starter is a complex piece of machinery, and a misstep during disassembly or reassembly could lead to even more issues.

Operating a vehicle with a failing battery can also put undue strain on the starter. The starter relies on the battery to provide the energy needed to crank the engine. If the battery isn’t up to the task, the starter has to work harder, increasing the risk of failure. Therefore, keeping your battery in top condition is not only good for the battery itself but also for your starter. Regular battery checks and replacements when necessary can go a long way in prolonging the lifespan of your starter.

Overworking the starter is another common cause of early failure. Constantly starting and stopping the engine puts a lot of strain on the starter. While sometimes it can’t be avoided, such as in stop-and-start traffic, try to limit the number of times you start your engine when it’s not necessary.

Finally, listening to your car can give you early warnings of a potential starter problem. If you notice any unusual noises when starting your engine, it’s time to get your starter checked. Other signs of a failing starter include difficulty starting the engine, a grinding noise during ignition, and smoke. If you notice any of these signs, don’t risk it – get your vehicle to a professional.

At Sartorial Auto Repairs, we’re all about keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Our team of experienced mechanics knows what it takes to keep starters in peak condition. We’ll clean your starter, check your battery, and identify any potential problems before they become big issues.

Don’t let a failing starter keep you off the road. Contact us today to schedule a preventative maintenance appointment. Let’s keep your car starting reliably, every time.