i've got a grinding noise when starting the car (2001 vrs), basically its starts absolutly fine, but once its started you get a sort of grinding noise.

the only way i can describe it is as if the starter motor is sticking in the engaged position for a second after the engine is ticking over and its skipping over the flywheel.

has anyone had this? know what it is? i'm guessing the solenoid is sticking but it may be something else all together.

cheers

Alan

I actually thought I heard similar thing on mine the other day? Will listen carefully next time I start it up

Yep, pretty common problem.

There are a couple of tales about removing the starter and cleaning or lubricating, personally id just get a new/recon starter, swap it over. Do it once then you have a warranty etc on it.

I used to have this.

Removed my starter about 10k miles ago, which is pretty easy. Cleaned it up properly, then gave the pinion and shaft a good smear of Castrol LM grease. It has been faultless ever since.

It has never stuck, and never made a noise since i did this. Glad I didnt waste silly money on a new or reconned part. There was nothing wrong with mine apart from excessive dust making it stick. Just clean yours, there's nothing to lose.

nice one bodge, i'll get onto this at the weekend, cheers for the advice!

i'm with Bodge too - took mine out and appeared to be in perfect condition, apart from a bit lazy to return from the engaged position.

A dose of brake cleaner and lubricant (I use GT85 as used for cycle maintenance as the solvent evaporates leaving a dry teflon lubricant coating behind) saw it OK again.

To be fair it is making the noise again some 18 months later, but no saying a new one wouldn't do the same, and half an hour to clean it again is no great hardship