The starter assembly for an automobile is a relatively simple devise that can cause a host of problems. If the starter gear does not turn, neither will the engine when the ignition switch is engaged. Other problems include a starter that turns but does not turn the engine, or a starter that turns the engine too slowly to start. Thankfully, replacing a starter is a relatively straightforward process. Follow the steps below to replace an auto starter.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal with a wrench. The negative battery terminal will have a "---" next to the negative post.
Raise the car with a suitable jack and support the vehicle by jack stands sufficient to safely support the vehicle.
Locate the starter underneath the vehicle, between the engine and the transmission. Most starters look like a coffee can.
Disconnect the starter cable at the starter cable terminal by turning the nut that secures the cable to the cable terminal in a counterclockwise direction. This terminal is located on the side of the starter itself.
Remove the flywheel housing-to-starter bolts that hold the starter in place with a wrench. There are usually two of these bolts.
Pull the starter out of its housing to remove it.
Install the starter by first positioning the starter to the flywheel housing that the old starter was removed from.
Secure the starter in place with the two bolts that were removed in step 5.
Connect the starter cable at the starter cable terminal.
Connect the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal located in step 1.
