Do you hear a high pitched whine during cranking (before the engine fires) but the engine cranks and fires normally?

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

Reduce the distance between the starter pinion and the flywheel.

Has the noise stopped?

System OK

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As the key is being turned, do you hear a high-pitched whine after the engine fires?

(The engine cranks and fires normally. This is often diagnosed as starter hang-in or a weak solenoid.)

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

Increase the distance between the starter pinion and the flywheel.

(Flywheel runout makes this appear to be intermittent.)

Has the noise stopped?

System OK

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Is there a loud "whoop" (It may sound like a siren if the engine is revved while the starter is engaged) after the engine fires, but while the starter is still held engaged?

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

1. Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement .
2. Check the starter motor clutch.
3. Replace the worn parts.

Has the noise stopped?

System OK

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Do you hear a "rumble", "growl", or, in severe cases, a "knock" as the starter is coasting down to a stop after starting the engine?

Go to Step 8

System OK

1. Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement .
2. Check for a bent or unbalanced starter armature.
3. Replace worn parts.

Has the noise stopped?

System OK

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