How often should a car motor be replaced?

[KatherineAnn]

If the car motor is not malfunctioning or damaged, it does not need to be replaced. The car motor, also known as the starter motor, along with another motor called the idle motor, is generally quite durable. In daily use, if the driver does not operate the starter according to regulations, issues such as brush wear, poor contact of the electromagnetic switch contacts, damage to the one-way gear or flywheel gear, or poor grounding can lead to motor failure. Therefore, during regular vehicle use, drivers should pay attention to: 1. Maintain good starting habits to avoid burning out the starter; 2. Conduct regular battery checks to ensure the battery can start the engine under normal capacity and power; 3. Regularly clean the engine compartment to prevent dust and oil from corroding and aging the engine compartment wiring harness, which could lead to poor contact or rust at the starter interface and affect normal engine startup. If motor damage is detected, it should be promptly repaired and maintained.

[JaylaRose]

It's rare to see car owners specifically come in to replace the starter motor during routine repairs, as it's a part that typically gets replaced only when it fails. The most durable one I've seen was still working fine after 200,000 kilometers, while some unlucky ones start making grinding noises at just 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. The lifespan of a starter motor largely depends on usage habits. If you crank it for more than ten seconds at a time or repeatedly start the engine in winter, the carbon brushes wear out much faster. Last time, I encountered an owner who revved the engine while starting it every time, and the rotor coil burned out in less than three years. However, many newer models now combine the starter and alternator into a 48V mild hybrid system, which ironically tends to be more prone to failures.

[OLeonardo]

There's really no fixed replacement interval for starters, it all depends on luck and usage patterns. I often tell customers that if you hear the grinding sound of gears slipping during startup, or if the starter spins without engaging the engine, those are basically signs it's nearing the end. Some German cars have shorter design lifespans for starters, especially those with start-stop systems - frequent restarts are particularly hard on them. I recall a BMW case that needed starter replacements twice in three years. The most reliable approach is to have technicians check starting voltage during routine maintenance - abnormal current increase indicates wear.

[LucasLynn]

Actually, a starter motor can last for many years if properly maintained. I've come across Japanese cars that haven't needed a replacement for over 15 years. The key lies in maintenance, with carbon brush wear and bearing lubrication being the two major vulnerabilities. Some experienced mechanics perform disassembly maintenance at around 100,000 kilometers, cleaning carbon dust and replacing grease. However, beginners should never attempt disassembly themselves - installing just one spring incorrectly can render the entire motor useless. Nowadays, replacing a starter motor at repair shops costs at least 700-800 RMB including labor and parts, and it's even more expensive for models with keyless start systems.

[GabriellaDella]

The starter motor isn't replaced based on mileage, mainly judged by the starting sound. A healthy condition should be a crisp 'click' sound when starting. If there's a dull humming noise or delayed start, it's likely due to aging of the solenoid switch. The most extreme case I've seen was a seized starter motor causing the battery to smoke. It's recommended to check before winter, as low temperatures can more easily expose issues. Aging wiring in old cars leading to insufficient voltage can also affect the starter motor, in which case a comprehensive inspection is needed.