loud noise sounds like grinding when I start my 2008 Taurus

Asked by busymoosemom Dec 04, 2018 at 09:45 AM about the 2008 Ford Taurus Limited

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

When I start my car there is a new sound, like metal grinding and clanking.
What should I check before I schedule an appointment with my mechanic?

2 Answers

44,020

It's probably the starter or it's Bendix gear not engaging properly. Most of the time replacing the starter will fix it. Luckily the flywheel survives this kind of abuse but don't push your luck as a flywheel replacement requires pulling the engine. Make an appointment and crank the starter only one more time to get there....don't shut the motor off until it's on the repair rack.

44,020

You can wiggle starter to see if it's just loose. I believe the starter is on the front of this 3.5 Duratec engine. If you have some mechanical skills you might want to check/tighten the two starter mounting bolts but disconnect the battery while working on it.

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