Nissan Primera 2.0 1998 starter motor problem

It may just need the starter rebuilt, I had one in like that a while ago, the bushes were heavily worn and the rotor dragged on the field coils. once the starter is out you can get a look at the ring gear teeth.

It's a common problem on Primera starters. It's the Bendix - Starters spins, but doesn't engage. A local auto-electrics shop fixed it for me while I waited - I went for lunch on an L reg 1.6, returned to it fixed. They then did it again 40K later - with the reassurance that it would never happen again (different parts?) I think the 1.6 is a little easier (more room). Haynes was talking about removing manifiold section (?) for access - but it's not necessary with care. I think the cost was ~ 80 each time. Try joining