Like Apriliaguy said, I'm bettin' it's the "Reman" starter issue. Most of the reman places use cheap crap (and labor) and the parts they use to rebuild starters/alternators aren't the same quality or fit as OEM. Hopefully your new OEM will solve the problem.
Starter Issue
Well at 105k, my starter finally failed on my 2003.
I had to get it towed to a Good Year/Pep Boys Auto Center. I know I know. Due to lack of tools, time and mechanic skills. I figured it was better than the dealer.
After 2 mornings there and 2 faulty starters plus $450, they still can't figure it out. It makes a weird noise when starting, but once its on its fine.
Is it possible that they are mounting it wrong or could it seriously be 2 faulty starters?
I'm driving it now but it just sounds horrible when it starts.
They are ordering me another new one and I have to gop back and have it installed in a few days.
Any help?
I had to get it towed to a Good Year/Pep Boys Auto Center. I know I know. Due to lack of tools, time and mechanic skills. I figured it was better than the dealer.
After 2 mornings there and 2 faulty starters plus $450, they still can't figure it out. It makes a weird noise when starting, but once its on its fine.
Is it possible that they are mounting it wrong or could it seriously be 2 faulty starters?
I'm driving it now but it just sounds horrible when it starts.
They are ordering me another new one and I have to gop back and have it installed in a few days.
Any help?
1 - 4 of 26 Posts
Like Dom said, if it wasn't making noises before he changed the starter, he may have induced the problem. Typically the only reason to change the flexplate (flywheel) is if teeth are damaged or if there's a crack in it.
If the teeth were damaged before he changed the starter it would be from the old starter not engaging properly and grinding the teeth on the starter and the flexplate, which you would hear when you try to start it.
If it is cracked, then I doubt it was caused by the mechanic.
If the teeth were damaged before he changed the starter it would be from the old starter not engaging properly and grinding the teeth on the starter and the flexplate, which you would hear when you try to start it.
If it is cracked, then I doubt it was caused by the mechanic.
Tell him you want to see the old starter. Look at the teeth to see if they're damaged. If he won't show you the starter, then I would question whether he was responsible by installing the wrong starter or improperly installing it.
Any updates? After looking at the pics, I understand the torque converter issue now, but if the toothed ring is on it, why did he want to replace the flex plate?
I have had manual transmission flywheels with bad rings before (I know your's is an auto, but bear with me). Most machine shops (engine rebuilders) can replace the rings to save the flywheels. You might want to check with one of them, or find a local transmission shop and ask them if there is anyone in your area that can rebuild torque converters or replace the ring on one.
Food for thought.
I have had manual transmission flywheels with bad rings before (I know your's is an auto, but bear with me). Most machine shops (engine rebuilders) can replace the rings to save the flywheels. You might want to check with one of them, or find a local transmission shop and ask them if there is anyone in your area that can rebuild torque converters or replace the ring on one.
Food for thought.
1 - 4 of 26 Posts
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