Is it the starter?

SOLI.RIN711

MEMBER
2011 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
121,000 MILES

I’ve had no real issues with my car. A couple of days ago there was a lag when I went to start it but it has not done that since. Today I ran errands to five different stores and on my last errand I came out and tried to start my car and it would not start. There was no clicking noise it was as if it wasn’t even trying. The light did come on and so do the air conditioner but the air from the air conditioner was hot. I did try to jump it and nothing happened. The tow truck driver told me that it’s probably just the starter and not to worry, but I am an anxious person and I am worried that it could be worse than the starter. Is there anything else that it could be?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,740 POSTS

Hi,

It could be a few things, but chances are it is the starter itself. When I say other things, I'm referring to things like a fuse, a relay, and so on. All of which would be less money and easier to repair.

I don't know if you have the vehicle at home at this point, but it isn't hard to check a starter. There are two wires on it. One has 12v power at all times. The smaller one only have 12v when the key is in the start position. If you have a helper, have him/her turn the key to start while you check for power. If it's there, then the starter is bad. If there is no power, then we need to check the relay and power supply.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let me know if this helps. Also, please feel free to let me know if you have other questions or concerns.

Take care and relax,

Joe