There is a high-pitched whine during cranking, before the engine fires, but the engine cranks and fires okay.

The distance is too great between the starter pinion and the flywheel.

There is a high-pitched whine after the engine fires, while the key is being released. The engine cranks and fires okay. This intermittent complaint is often diagnosed as "starter hang-in" or as "solenoid weak".

The distance is too small between the starter pinion and the flywheel. Flywheel runout contributes to the intermittent condition.

A loud whoop occurs after the engine fires while the starter is still held engaged. A siren sound occurs if the engine is accelerated, while the starter is engaged.

The probable cause is an inoperative starter motor clutch. A new clutch will often correct this problem.

A rumble, a growl or, in severe cases, a knock occurs, when the starter is coasting down to a stop after starting the engine.

The probable cause is a bent or an unbalanced starter motor armature. A new armature will often correct this problem.