[Jynx]

Hey guys every now and then when I go to start my car the starter will clunk into the flywheel. like there is a little play so the starter hits the flywheel with some speed instead of being meshed and applying torque. it only happens like once every five to ten starts. car only has 12k miles.

is this normal? or a sign something is wrong?

 

[ramblerdan]

Though the Bendix drive could be faulty, damaged teeth on the starter or flywheel can cause the same symptom. Have you ever accidentally hit the starter while the engine was running?

 

[Jynx]

nope. think i should bring it in?

 

[hotrodder]

Conjure up GenXDad. This would be a great question for him. He may have seen this issue before at his dealership.

 

[slimerdogs]

I would have it checked as it does sound like the bendix clutches are slipping. At the least you will have it on record that you might have a start problem.