Introduction
Have you ever faced a situation where you turn the ignition key, but the engine does not start? The problem could be with the starter solenoid. In this article, we will understand what a starter solenoid is, why it fails, and how to bypass starter solenoid in easy steps.
What is a Starter Solenoid?
A starter solenoid is a small electrical component that is responsible for engaging the starter motor of your vehicle. It is a switch that allows electricity to flow from the battery to the starter motor, which in turn starts the engine. The starter solenoid is located near the battery and is typically bolted to the engine block or the starter motor.
Why Starter Solenoid Fails?
Starter solenoids can fail due to various reasons, such as corrosion, worn-out contacts, or a faulty wiring connection. When a starter solenoid fails, the engine will not start, and you will hear a clicking sound from the starter motor.
Bypassing Starter Solenoid
If your starter solenoid has failed, you can bypass it temporarily to start the engine. Here are the steps to bypass starter solenoid:
Step 1: Park Your Vehicle on a Flat Surface
Before you start working on the starter solenoid, park your vehicle on a flat surface, and engage the parking brake.
Step 2: Locate the Starter Motor
The starter motor is located on the underside of your vehicle, typically near the engine block. You can refer to your vehicle’s owner manual to find the exact location.
Step 3: Identify the Positive Battery Terminal
Identify the positive battery terminal, which is marked with a “+” sign. It is usually located on the battery’s top surface and is connected to the starter solenoid.
Step 4: Locate the Starter Motor Terminal
Locate the starter motor terminal, which is a small bolt or nut attached to the starter motor. It is usually located near the positive battery terminal.
Step 5: Connect a Jumper Cable
Connect one end of the jumper cable to the positive battery terminal and the other end to the starter motor terminal. Make sure the connections are tight and secure.
Step 6: Turn the Ignition Key
Turn the ignition key to the “on” position and listen for the starter motor to engage. If the engine starts, it means that the starter solenoid has failed and needs to be replaced.
Step 7: Disconnect the Jumper Cable
Once the engine has started, disconnect the jumper cable from the starter motor terminal and the positive battery terminal. Do not disconnect the cable while the engine is running.
When to Replace the Starter Solenoid?
Bypassing the starter solenoid is a temporary solution, and you should replace the starter solenoid as soon as possible. You can check the starter solenoid’s continuity using a multimeter to confirm that it has failed. If the continuity is open, it means that the starter solenoid has failed and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
In this article, we have learned what a starter solenoid is, why it fails, and how to bypass starter solenoid in easy steps. Bypassing the starter solenoid is a temporary solution, and you should replace the starter solenoid as soon as possible. Remember to park your vehicle on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the battery before working on the starter solenoid.