How do I know when my starter is sticking?

Question

I have a 1994 Buick Regal Gran Sport, and it sometimes don't start. When I put the key in the ignition.. I can hear my ignition trying to start the car.. but none of the motor components move. For the last two days my car hasn't started. I went to get the battery tested, and while doing so.. they tested the starter and altenator. Is it possible for the starter to test good and yet stick?

Answer 1

When you take your starter to an auto parts store the machine that they put the starter on does not put a load on the stater like an engine does, so that test is not reliable. It is very possible for the starter to test good and stick. Try to have someone tap the starter and the other person turn the ignition. Most likely you have a bad starter. On way to be shure is to use a test light and probe the starter at the b positive terminal with the ignition off and make shure that the starter is getting power for the battery. Then have someone put the ignition in the run position and probe the starter relay on the starter to see if it is recieving power. If both are then the starter is the problem. Also the bad alternator will cause the battery not to charge, witch will also not have the car start. Best bet is to charge the battery, then try to start the car, then try the starter test, that will fix your problem guarenteed.

Answer 2

The armature in the starter could have a break in the winding or the fields if you hear a clicking sound when turning the key then you need a starter.

Answer 3

One of the bigest things is the belt. If one of the pullys ( most of the time on the air cond) pullis frozon, it will prevent the car from turning over.
This is just one thing that can prevent it from starting.
So take off the serpinteen belt and try to start the car. If it now starts then one of the pulleys is frozon. Turn all the pullys by hand untill you find the one that is stuck.

Now I am not saying this is the reason it wont start just another thing to look for.
Hope this helps

Answer 4

it's possible that the throw bearing in your starter is not letting the starter gear out to the point where it interlocks with your flywheel . listen closely for a grinding sound as you first turn the key. if you hear a clicking sound and the battery tests alright, change your starter solenoid

Answer 5

If you go to start it and all it does is click several times as you try to start it and it starts.... then your starter is going bad.... So answering your question.. yes it can, if it isnt sticking at the time of the test

Answer 6

yes i could still stick but is this your problem i could not be sure