What Is A Starter Motor And Why Is It Important?
A starter motor is a device that cranks the engine to get it going. In modern cars, an electric starter motor engages as soon as you turn the key or press the start button. Powered by the car’s battery, it turns the engine over to start the internal combustion process. Let's take a closer look at what a starter motor is and why it is crucial for your car.
What Does A Starter Motor Do?
A starter motor is a small electric device designed to turn the internal combustion engine to get it started. It consists of a starter solenoid and an electric motor, and it connects to the flywheel. If the starter motor is failing, you will experience difficulty starting your car. If it fails completely, your car won’t start at all.
How The Starter Motor Operates
A starter motor engages with the flywheel, which is attached to the crankshaft. When you turn the ignition key, an electromagnet pushes out a pinion gear that meshes with gear teeth on the flywheel.
The starter motor turns, forcing the flywheel to move, which then turns the engine over. The pinion retracts, and the starter motor switches off. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- You turn the ignition key (or press the start button).
- The battery sends a strong current to the starter motor.
- An electromagnet pushes the pinion gear out to engage with the flywheel.
- The starter motor rotates, causing the flywheel to turn.
- The engine turns over, initiating the combustion process.
- The pinion gear retracts, and the starter motor turns off.
How Long Should A Starter Motor Last?
Image Credit: WorldMechanics
A starter motor typically lasts many years. Most will work for 100,000 miles or even longer. Factors that influence starter motor lifespan include:
- Trip Length - Frequent short trips will put additional strain on the starter components.
- Battery Condition – A weak battery will require the starter to be cranked for longer.
- Fluid Leaks – Oil and water leaking onto the starter can cause corrosion and premature failure.
Like any moving part, the starter motor can eventually wear out. In particular, the solenoid and electric motor brushes can deteriorate over time. This makes it harder to start the car and strains the battery. The most common causes of starter motor failure include:
- Worn-out electric motor brushes
- Failed starter motor solenoid
- Corroded or broken electrical connectors
- Damaged or worn-out pinion gears
Choose A Quality OEM Starter Motor From REAL Mazda Parts
Your starter motor is an essential component of your car. It can typically last around 100,000 miles, though this can vary based on the factors mentioned above. OEM starter motors are designed to work perfectly with your specific Mazda model. Purchasing aftermarket parts may seem cheaper initially. However, they often cost more due to inefficient operation and damage to other components.
At REAL Mazda Parts, we only sell genuine Mazda components with a manufacturer warranty at wholesale prices. This saves you money and gives you added peace of mind.
Use our VIN decoder to find the right starter motor Mazda the first time. You can also contact our team to help you find the right part at the best price for your Mazda.