how to start car with bad starter

You turn the key, and instead of the familiar roar of your engine, you’re met with a single, dreaded sound: a rapid clicking. Your heart sinks as you realize the starter might be the culprit. A bad starter can feel like a show-stopper, leaving you stranded and stressed. But before you call for an expensive tow truck, it’s worth knowing that there are a few reliable methods for how to start car with bad starter that could get you to a mechanic safely.

How to Start a Car with a Bad Starter

When a starter motor begins to fail, it often lacks the power to turn the engine over. The two most common techniques to overcome this involve providing that missing power from an external source. These are temporary fixes, but they can be incredibly effective in a pinch.

The Bump Start Technique

If you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, bump starting (or push starting) is your best bet. This method uses the car’s own momentum to turn the engine over. To do this, turn the ignition to the “on” position, press the clutch fully in, and put the car in second gear. Have someone push the car or let it roll down a hill. Once you have a bit of speed, quickly release the clutch. The car should jolt and the engine might sputter to life. Once it starts, push the clutch back in to avoid stalling.

Tapping the Starter Motor

Sometimes, the issue is a stuck component inside the starter solenoid. A gentle tap with a solid object, like a tire iron or a piece of wood, can jar it loose. Locate the starter motor (consult your owner’s manual) and give its body a few firm but careful taps. Do not smash it. After tapping, try starting the car normally. This is a short-term solution, but it might grant you just enough starts to get to a repair shop.

Checking Your Connections

A problem that mimics a bad starter is simply a poor electrical connection. Pop the hood and inspect the battery terminals. If they are covered in a white or bluish corrosive powder, they need to be cleaned. Ensure the connections to the battery and the starter itself are tight and secure. A loose wire can prevent the necessary power from reaching the starter motor.

While these methods can provide a temporary solution, they are not a substitute for a proper repair. A failing starter is a clear sign that a visit to a trusted mechanic is in your immediate future. Use these tips to get moving, but be sure to address the root cause for safe and reliable driving.