Starter Service Near Los Angeles, CA

View of a service tech inspecting a vehicle's starter

Starter Service at Premier CDJR of Buena Park

One of the most frustrating things about driving are the times when your car, truck, SUV, or minivan won’t start. There are many reasons your vehicle won’t start. Often, it’s a problem with your starter, and this happens more often than you think. You can bring your vehicle to Premier Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Buena Park for starter service if you live around Los Angeles, Anaheim, or Long Beach. Several things can help you identify if the problem is the starter or if it is something else.

What is a Starter?

Your starter is a small motor within the engine that is powered by the battery. It helps start the engine. A starter relay sits between the battery and the starter motor that transmits power. If there is a problem with the starter relay or the motor, your vehicle won’t start, and you’ll likely need to tow your vehicle for service.

The Usual Suspects of Starter Issues

If there is a problem getting your vehicle started and you suspect a problem with your starter, here are some of the more common symptoms.

  • Something sounds wrong: If you hear a clicking sound when you try to start your vehicle, there may be a starter issue. Though a starter can die without making a sound, there also may be a whirring or grinding noise.
  • Lights, but no power to get anywhere: If you start your vehicle and the dashboard lights up but it does nothing else, you may have a starter issue.
  • No crank: Your engine fails to rev up even after attempting a jumpstart. If this happens, call roadside assistance and have them bring your vehicle into Premier CDJR of Buena Park, because you’ll need a certified technician to get you back on the road.
  • Smoking: If you have smoke pouring out of your hood or somewhere else, it may be the starter. Your vehicle has an electrical system and that means fuses can blow, and short circuits can happen. If you see or smell smoke, call for help rather than trying to start the engine again.
  • Oil all over the starter: The starter is usually found on the passenger side of your engine, just below the exhaust manifold if your vehicle is rear wheel drive. If it is a front-wheel drive, check on the driver’s side above the transmission or below the exhaust manifold. If you open the hood and find your starter covered in oil, your bad starter may be caused by an oil leak that will need to be corrected quickly so you can get back on the road.

If you experience any of these problems, you need to have your starter system checked out by our expert technicians.

If you suspect your vehicle is having a starter issue, contact us at Premier CDJR of Buena Park and set up an appointment with our Service Center, or schedule service online. Let us help you with all your maintenance and repair needs starting today.