I have a 1998 avensis 2 ltr turbo deisel, 98,000 miles on the clock. Last week it would not start and it seemed as though it needed a new starter motor. I have tried 2 different replacements but car will not start. It makes a crunching noise when trying to start as though it is not engaging It is as if it has extra teeth and won't engage yet the starter motor has the correct matching teeth it should have. Can anyone help?
Thanks
A crunching, grinding, or clashing noise when engaging the starter usually means that the solenoid is not working properly or that the teeth on the flywheel or ring gear are damaged.
If the noise has not changed through 2 different replacements, remove the starter and look at the teeth on the flywheel if you have a manual transmission or ring gear if you have an automatic transmission. If the teeth are damaged, the flywheel or ring gear will have to be replaced.
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