Hi ya just thought I’d let you know, you saved my much loved golf from the scrap yard. She has covered 213,000 miles and I thought she had given up the ghost until something was nagging me to go on line and be sure . I found you and she’s back on the road for £88.00 a new starter . Thank you for your help and expertise .👍👍🙏🏻
Thank you so much WheelsAndMotors for posting this video! The most thorough video of all by far. I can tell the person was very knowledgeable with the the starter's function and importance to the ignition of a car. I gain a lot information from it. All the other videos were not helpful at all.
as an update I did remove it. when I took it out sludge was clogging up the housing. although the starter gear was stuck out. but I did it and it didn't take all day.
Good video tnx! Starters get gunked up so if its malfunctioning an internal cleanup can do wonders. Next to the brushplate the golden bearing is usually also availible. Taking it apart is not difficult.
You sir have earned a like and sub helped me solve my no crank no start. Had a bad connection between motor and solenoid. Just had to sand it down and re connect.
Very useful video. I tested my starter only by bridging the nut and bolt only spinning the motor making me believe the solenoid is bad but I will check tomorrow going through the connector instead. Thanks for the video
4:20 I am curious what that connector is with the red and brown wires. The reason is that I have a 1.8T with those 2 wires going no where. I am not sure if I have pulled them off something whilst removing the plastic cover, or if they are just an unused part of the loom. Excellent and useful video by the way. Thanks.
I don't have that car for a while. It looks to me that it costs be a connector for reverse light switch. But for some reason, at different angle. I have a video about reverse light switch, could that be it: ruclips.net/video/ADsOGFmP1PQ/видео.html
@@wawayltd You Sir are a Gentleman. Many thanks for your kind reply. Yes that explains why I have no reversing lights. I've actually never had reversing lights working since I've had the car, and now I know why. Best wishes.
It is not often that you find a video tutorial that stays at the point with explanation that you can actually understand and really use. Yours is one of the few. Thank you very much it helped me a lot. I have one question. Is it possible to replace just the small wire that connects the solenoid and the motor?
Thanks :) Why wire? Do you think it's faulty? I haven't done it before. I believe that it's possible, just need to see where it's going at the back to see how disconnect it. Would be interesting to know how you getting on..
@@wawayltd The cable is visibly broken. I assume it is linked to the brush plate but I am not sure for now. The car was not used over the winter. Cranking after this was visibly more difficult than it used to be. Nevertheless, it worked for a week and then during cranking it just died, no click, no sounds, no significant lights in the dashboard. In the mean time I discovered that the solenoid is also dead, so I am considering changing the entire assembly. It is just strange to me that both the solenoid and the wire failed in the same moment. If you have any advise to spare , it would be welcomed.
@@ciprianradu6641 These starter motors are not expensive. On eBay you can buy refurbished with 12 months warranty for 60 pounds, and simply used from scrapyard for like 20. I suppose it's about how you value your time. Personally, I would just get another one instead of trying to repair it, especially as you say if there seem to be few faults. Unless you have lots of time and find it interesting tinkering with it.. All depends on your situation.
@@wawayltd My thinking goes along the same lines. I will buy a complete assembly, change it and when I will find some hours I will open the old one for "educational purposes". Thanks a lot for taking the time and support me on this. Have a happy Easter !
Hello Sir - first of all awesome job with your videos! I know it's quite old one, and a bit long shot, but any tips for starter motor sneeze? I took it out, put some grease to the planetary gears, but it did not help.. Thanks in advance!
Très bienvenu de la part d'un letton qui vit au Royaume-Uni ... Et j'espère pouvoir traverser votre pays en voiture en été pour rendre visite à mes parents. 😉
This really is the most detailed and clearly explained part repair/replacement video I have come across. I will definitely be sharing it. Thank you! Is starting trouble only when it is humid outside a typical problem that occurs with aging starter motors? Thanks again!
Why did the battery changed positions while you were removing it? First the terminals were facing the bumper and then there is a cut in the video and the terminals are facing the interior of the car.
I don't remember much from time when I was filming it.. I think I could replace battery with another one, because old one was rubbish. And that new battery had different terminal layout.
I tested the connection for the siginal from the ignition and only got 0.35 to 0.5 Volts. Am I right in thinking if it was this wire it should be 0. I havent cleaned the contacts yet as the nut to hold the battery postive lead is stuck on solid so could it be thats why I am receiving a very low siginal reading? I also hear a clicking on the alternator. Great video by the way!!!!!!
@@wawayltd wooow you are a top guy for responding even after all these years...seriously your videos are so informative and to the point...have just subscribed... I put a brand new bosch battery in and that is reading around 15V from what I remember....I think when I tried turning the ignition it did drop to about 12.5Volts..will have to test again in a few days to make sure...but the figures were along these lines. Am I right in thinking if there was a problem with the wire siginal from ignition to the starter there would be absolutely 0 Volts.
I did that video a while ago, I have worked out how the starter motor works, but I'm not sure about voltages in wiring. If the battery is new, then it must be either a starter motor or the wiring. There's a good article describing it in details: www-howacarworks-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.howacarworks.com/ignition-system/checking-the-starter-circuit.amp?amp_gsa=1&_js_v=a9&usqp=mq331AQIUAKwASCAAgM%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16797811545526&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.howacarworks.com%2Fignition-system%2Fchecking-the-starter-circuit
@@wawayltd I think if I can can get the positive nut off give it a little clean and then do a starter motor test without taking the starter out by doing the same thing you did when you took the starter out will confirm if its working or not....where did you get that probe with the crocodile clip from....am struggling to find a decent one?
What if you replace the starter but it doesn’t engage the flywheel?? I’ve tried 3 different starters. A buddy said something about the timing and compression. Any info would be great. 2004 Vw GLI 1.8t
Some starters may have different sprockets. Make sure that the sprocket on a new starter is tue same as the original. That's the only thing I can think of.
Thanks. Best explaination i ever seen for starter testing. ...just one question....i have same car and want to know how many teeth must bendix drive have for this specific vehicle.. My father in law have same car but he replaced with 10 teeth Bendix. I measured flywheel teeth distance against bendix teeth distance and it didn't match, which caused starter not engaging. So i suspect it should be a 8 teeth bendix. Want to ask here before i remove my own starter to double check my theory of the teeth since he has same car as me
@@wawayltd thanks for reply...i took out my own starter and it also has 10 teeth...turned out it is the flywheel teeth which is worned out causing slipping of starter and not engaging.....sooooo major headache ahead of a major job removing flywheel :(
Fantastic video ty. What if it only shows 11.86 volts when testing the ignition wire that goes to the solenoid? I had the starter rebuilt but I'm still having starting issues. Battery shows good, as does the alternator.
Try to measure voltage on the battery terminals when engine is not running - it should be over 12 Volts, also when you starting the engine the voltage should normally drop, but not lower than 11.5, if it drops lower then that, then probably battery is not in great condition. Could be not be bad battery itself or something draining it. Also make sure that multimeter is in voltage mode, not amperage that can cause short circuit (just in case).
Thank you for the help. I had the battery checked and the alternator as well, and had everything set properly while testing (voltage mode). Something just wasn't adding up. I ended up taking the starter back to the rebuilder and had them do it over again, and now it's working great. This video helped me a lot, thanks again!
Hey I bought a second hand car and I noticed something. Where the positive cable connects to the starter there’s also another cable there. What could that cable be for?
It's going to be difficult to access bottom bolt of a starter motor. I think if you start DIY on your car, jack and stands is one if the most essential things.
Very nice! But am I right to blame him if my cold engine starts fast, but only 3cylinders(thats how it feels), often completely suffers within 5sec. Often I can avoid this with softly pumping the pedal. Second try it mostly works and the engine is working well after few seconds. So maybe he is to weak because of old grease or bad connection?? Greetings from Germany!
@@wawayltd thx for superfast reply, so I'll go for, in my case spark plugs, new after 4yrs and 50.000km to eliminate that . But the problem is not that new. In my 2001 200.000km Bora azj 2.0L, last week we had to flush all the oil out of the cooling circle, just because that tiny oil warmer got leaky and now I want to spend him some more repairs and diagnosis this year.
Please don't get me wrong, I'm not giving a diagnosis - that was just guessing. I'm not a mechanic, and I don't have much experience with petrol engines. I hope you'll get it sorted.
Is there a typical number of years that a starter is estimated to last? I realize this can vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on how often a starter is used. I'm interested in a very rough estimate based on a VW MKIV 2.8L V6 driven every day. For example, should a starter in this vehicle typically last 10 years? Fifteen years? Twenty years? Also, is a Bosch replacement starter better than a VW OEM starter?
I'm a taxi driver, I do lots of miles. Currently have VW Sharan with 378.000 miles on a clock, previous car was also VAG - Audi A6 that has done over 400K miles. None of them had any issues with starter motor. Considering amount of times I start and stop engine every day, I have impression that they (starter motors) last forever. Maybe there are some other conditions for starters to fail, maybe lack of use? I'm not sure.. Bosch is a good brand, I don't know what brand VW uses on their assembly lines - in my eyes they are both good.
@@wawayltd Thank you. I asked the question because I'm preparing to refresh many components on my 2004 VW GTI 2.8L with 140,000 miles for the purpose of assured reliability: clutch, water pump, coolant hoses, coolant pipe, thermostat housing, thermostat, serpentine belt, tensioner, alternator, spark plugs, coils, possibly the secondary air pump, engine mounts, timing chain, guides and tensioners, oil cooler seal, entire suspension, and rebuild the brake calipers. Considering the depth of maintenance and the amount of components being removed, I want to be certain that other opportunistic maintenance that should be considered, is included during this substantial refresh/tune-up. As you know most components in the MKIV engine bay are difficult to access unless they're directly on top of the engine or directly below. Since many components need to be removed to access other components, I want to be certain I'm including in this refresh/tune-up, all components that are likely approaching the end of their useful life. This is why I asked about the starter. When the tune up is complete, I want to have the same confidence in the vehicle's reliability as the day it was bought new from the car dealer. Yes, it will cost a lot of money, but I'm willing to pay in exchange for the piece of mind knowing that I can drive the car across country without any worries for many years to come.
@@wawayltd The alternator is original. I have started noticing the headlights dimming at certain times, leading me to believe the alternator is beginning to fail. As a result, I stopped using the heated seats and air conditioner in order to put less of a load on the alternator. However, I want to be able to reliably use the fully designed functionality of these systems, which is why all of the components mentioned are being replaced. I'm the original owner of this vehicle. I like the car and would like to keep it until it reaches 250,000 miles. Reliability is very important to me. I do not want the car sitting in a garage every couple months with a new problem to fix. I want to fix all immanent or potential problems now so the car can be driven reliably with no concerns on long road trips. Now that you more fully understand my perspective, if you have other suggestions for me during this tune-up, please let me know. Thank you for understanding.
Great video, very skillful mechanic and excellent teacher. Also funny (“If you know some incredible specialist who will do it for free, (then try fix the motor)…” rotf
So the story continues. As I couldnt bother to borrow a tester from my mate, I went for the disassembly option. After lots of hammering with a screwdriver, I was able to pull the damn thing out and the sprocket did come out and spin. So disassembled back together, put some grease on the cable connector and it started again! However, the thing lasted exactly 2 days and today it happened again, but after a slow crank. So I thought maybe my battery is dead. After pushing the car on, went home and borrowed the tester this time :) Surprisingly, the battery stays at over 14V while on, when off at 12.7 and drops to 12.3 when I attempt to start. The cable also gives over 12V when starting, so I am a bit puzzled now. Thinking of making a cable to connect the solenoid and main signal cable in between to confirm if its a bad connector. Does this make sense?
Don't know mate, from what you said - voltage seems to be normal, as it should be... Are you sure putting grease on connections would help electrical contact?
Amazing thanks for sharing knowledge. Mine cranks first time but then fails to crank when engine is hot after a long drive, I think it could be the starter.
If you can get everywhere without a jack, good for you.. You can also use ramps or like a grove in the garage (not sure what it's called). If you are using jack though - DO NOT forget about stands, people die when jacks failing.
При заводке мотора, гудит стартер или визг издаёт на гольф 4, after Start my engine on get weird noise from starter golf mk4 1.9. Pěc dziněja palaišanas starteris dimd, rûc, starter 1 year old, what's the problem?
Скорее всего проблема с обгонной муфтой. Её ещё называют "бендикс". Я не пробовал разбирать сам мотор стартера того Гольфа, мне кажется современные стартеры так просто не разбираются. Да и Гольфа того у меня уже нет. Если стартер с гарантией, я бы обратился к продавцам. Если нет, то проще купить новый или б/у. Если интересует тема этих бендиксов, вот ссылка на хорошее видео: ruclips.net/video/vkbsqtZNJDg/видео.html
Hi Colin, I never tried to do it myself, but as far as I know it's not easy. If you're paying someone to do it, you'll be better off buying another motor.
Principle is the same - petrol or diesel. Perhaps starter motor for diesel must be a bit stronger.. Actually I have a video about starter motor for Toyota Avensis, petrol - starter motor looks very similar.
I don’t get it ...tested solenoid worked fine .. then tested motor worked fine , then how did you come up with result that faulty solenoid?... pls explain ...
That starter motor in the video doesn't have a fault. I took it out just for educational purposes of the video. I didn't say that solenoid is faulty - just explained what can be done if it is.
Your starter looks like my starter of my vw polo classic, but in my case the solenoid work when I connect the positive cable.( after many trying) But in the car it's doesn't work.
If starter works as it should, but doesn't work in the car, I think there should be a problem with wiring or connector... Or depending how it behaves - bad battery?
@@wawayltd ordered a second hand one from a low mileage car off ebay. great videos by the way, I used your how to do the brakes for the MOT and saved myself a few hundred pounds.
what is wrong when the starter cog does not retract quickly enough? mine is starting the motor ok but gets spun by the flywheel and makes a loud screeching sound
I think there are few reasons that can cause it. First, when engine started, starter still gets signal on the relay keeps working - which is highly unlikely.. The other 2 reasons best to test when you take starter out, because likely it would be mechanical problem. It's either worn out spring that doesn't pull it back - try to pull sprocket out and see if it pulls back.. However most likely you have a problem with bendix. When starter motor engages, there's like a bearing that with torque from starter locks itself and turns the flywheel, once engine started, it turns faster than starter motor, so that bearing-bendix gets loose and starter motor sprocket goes back. To check bendix, you can turn the sprocket on starter with your hand fast one way, you should feel that you turning the motor inside, and when you change direction it should be loose, like you turning sprocket only. If you'll be turning motor both ways - that means bendix is stuck. Unfortunately, I don't have any practical experience of replacing bendix or lubricating it. And I just had a look on eBay, if it's a Golf we talking about, I can see - they sell used starters for as low as 20 pounds, cheaper than new bendix. If I would have this problem - I would try to lubricate it, to see if it helps. If bendix is damaged, then I'm not sure how to replace it - probably would buy a new/used/reconditioned starter motor. Hope it helps :)
The best auto repair video I have watched. Very detailed and clear explained. Thank you for sharing.
You're welcome 👍
Hi ya just thought I’d let you know, you saved my much loved golf from the scrap yard. She has covered 213,000 miles and I thought she had given up the ghost until something was nagging me to go on line and be sure . I found you and she’s back on the road for £88.00 a new starter . Thank you for your help and expertise .👍👍🙏🏻
Adam, you're very welcome 👍 I'm glad she's back to life ⭐
honestly best video and explanation I ever seen
Thanks :)
I agree with you. Well done 👍
Thanks Suzy
You can't dream something more clear than that exolanation!
Thanks :)
I am back watching this video again, with a starter problem on my 2nd MK4. Once again, great quality and very helpful!
Welcome back! 😎👍
Great video. I was going to just buy a starter right away but after watching this I am definitely going to go though the tests. Thanks!
You're very welcome 👍 Hope it helps.
Excellent video, very well explained, easy to follow and a great help!
You're very welcome 👍 Glad if it helps.
Very good explanation
Thank You very much! 👍
And Merry Christmas! 🌲🎉
Thanks man, helped me take mine out and bring it to a shop to have it rebuilt for cheap and it works like a charm!
You're welcome 👍
Thank you so much WheelsAndMotors for posting this video! The most thorough video of all by far. I can tell the person was very knowledgeable with the the starter's function and importance to the ignition of a car. I gain a lot information from it. All the other videos were not helpful at all.
watchman316ly Thank you :) Glad if it helps!
I've been working on my own Golfs for years and this gent has saved me £1000's my cars only worth a few quid but much loved so cheer's.
Thank you Kristian 😊👍
Good video, many thanks. I did notice that when you removed the battery it's position was swapped round so terminal positions changed?
I think I replaced the battery with the new one and it had a different terminal setup.
this is the most informative to the point tutorial ever. I actually feel confident I can do this. thank you.
You're very welcome :) Glad, if it helps!
as an update I did remove it. when I took it out sludge was clogging up the housing. although the starter gear was stuck out. but I did it and it didn't take all day.
Great video as always mate. Thanks very much - replaced my starter today and works a treat. Thanks for showing how to bench test also!
You're welcome 😎🍺
Good video tnx!
Starters get gunked up so if its malfunctioning an internal cleanup can do wonders. Next to the brushplate the golden bearing is usually also availible.
Taking it apart is not difficult.
Good to know, thanks 👍
You sir have earned a like and sub helped me solve my no crank no start. Had a bad connection between motor and solenoid. Just had to sand it down and re connect.
Nice to know that it helps 🌻
Very useful video. I tested my starter only by bridging the nut and bolt only spinning the motor making me believe the solenoid is bad but I will check tomorrow going through the connector instead. Thanks for the video
You're very welcome 👍
4:20 I am curious what that connector is with the red and brown wires.
The reason is that I have a 1.8T with those 2 wires going no where. I am not sure if I have pulled them off something whilst removing the plastic cover, or if they are just an unused part of the loom.
Excellent and useful video by the way. Thanks.
I don't have that car for a while. It looks to me that it costs be a connector for reverse light switch. But for some reason, at different angle. I have a video about reverse light switch, could that be it:
ruclips.net/video/ADsOGFmP1PQ/видео.html
@@wawayltd You Sir are a Gentleman. Many thanks for your kind reply. Yes that explains why I have no reversing lights. I've actually never had reversing lights working since I've had the car, and now I know why. Best wishes.
Nice one 👍
It is not often that you find a video tutorial that stays at the point with explanation that you can actually understand and really use. Yours is one of the few. Thank you very much it helped me a lot.
I have one question. Is it possible to replace just the small wire that connects the solenoid and the motor?
Thanks :)
Why wire? Do you think it's faulty?
I haven't done it before. I believe that it's possible, just need to see where it's going at the back to see how disconnect it.
Would be interesting to know how you getting on..
@@wawayltd The cable is visibly broken. I assume it is linked to the brush plate but I am not sure for now. The car was not used over the winter. Cranking after this was visibly more difficult than it used to be. Nevertheless, it worked for a week and then during cranking it just died, no click, no sounds, no significant lights in the dashboard. In the mean time I discovered that the solenoid is also dead, so I am considering changing the entire assembly. It is just strange to me that both the solenoid and the wire failed in the same moment. If you have any advise to spare , it would be welcomed.
@@ciprianradu6641 These starter motors are not expensive. On eBay you can buy refurbished with 12 months warranty for 60 pounds, and simply used from scrapyard for like 20.
I suppose it's about how you value your time. Personally, I would just get another one instead of trying to repair it, especially as you say if there seem to be few faults.
Unless you have lots of time and find it interesting tinkering with it..
All depends on your situation.
@@wawayltd My thinking goes along the same lines. I will buy a complete assembly, change it and when I will find some hours I will open the old one for "educational purposes". Thanks a lot for taking the time and support me on this. Have a happy Easter !
so far the best,,,like a university,,you are a excellent tutor,,,thanks.
It's just not as complicated as it may seem initially 😊
Again astonished whats all shown for the Golf!
You're very welcome Mr Little Budda 😇
Hello Sir - first of all awesome job with your videos! I know it's quite old one, and a bit long shot, but any tips for starter motor sneeze? I took it out, put some grease to the planetary gears, but it did not help.. Thanks in advance!
Sorry, had to Goggle what "starter motor sneeze" is. I don't think I know more than you do...
@@wawayltd No worries at all and a huge thank you for your answer!
Nice step by step instructions for removal and testing
Thanks Peter 😷👍
Good video. There is a kind of seal behind the sprocket, what's its job and how important is it? Mine shows lot of wear
Thanks
Sorry Maurizio, I never had to deal with that seal.. I suppose it is there to protect starter motor from clutch dust.
@@wawayltd ok, thank you!
EXCELLENT video...superb teaching as well....great job and thanks...i also have a dead tdi 1.9...no crank, no start..
Thanks William!
I hope your 1.9tdi will have a good life. They are good engines.
Don't know if I like the video or your accent more. Nice video Sir!
Thank you very much Joshua :)
Thank you so much!!! You are my hero!....The problem was in cable in 5:28. It was rust.
You're very welcome :) Glad if it helps.
No joke the best and most detailed video for this out there, thanks!
Thanks Xavier :)
Thankyou so much for this video, just finished replacing my starter motor and this helped alot!
You're welcome 👍
Thank you so much, very useful, you make it very clear to understand!
Tomas, you're very welcome 👍
Perfect explanations ! Very useful for me. Thanks a lot from France !
Très bienvenu de la part d'un letton qui vit au Royaume-Uni ... Et j'espère pouvoir traverser votre pays en voiture en été pour rendre visite à mes parents. 😉
Great video, saved me a stack of money today 👍🏼
Glad I could help
This really is the most detailed and clearly explained part repair/replacement video I have come across. I will definitely be sharing it. Thank you!
Is starting trouble only when it is humid outside a typical problem that occurs with aging starter motors? Thanks again!
Thanks :) Sometimes connections get rusty and cause problems..
@13:52 "Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr. Starter Motor"...I actually laughed...not only informative, but also very entertaining--thank you Valdis!
Thanks Lorenzo :)
Thank you for this detailed and well explained video
You're welcome 👍
Very comprehensively explained. Thanks :)
Alan, you're welcome 👍
Why did the battery changed positions while you were removing it? First the terminals were facing the bumper and then there is a cut in the video and the terminals are facing the interior of the car.
I don't remember much from time when I was filming it.. I think I could replace battery with another one, because old one was rubbish. And that new battery had different terminal layout.
I tested the connection for the siginal from the ignition and only got 0.35 to 0.5 Volts. Am I right in thinking if it was this wire it should be 0. I havent cleaned the contacts yet as the nut to hold the battery postive lead is stuck on solid so could it be thats why I am receiving a very low siginal reading? I also hear a clicking on the alternator.
Great video by the way!!!!!!
Thanks 👍
Is your battery strong? What's the voltage, especially during starting?
@@wawayltd wooow you are a top guy for responding even after all these years...seriously your videos are so informative and to the point...have just subscribed...
I put a brand new bosch battery in and that is reading around 15V from what I remember....I think when I tried turning the ignition it did drop to about 12.5Volts..will have to test again in a few days to make sure...but the figures were along these lines. Am I right in thinking if there was a problem with the wire siginal from ignition to the starter there would be absolutely 0 Volts.
I did that video a while ago, I have worked out how the starter motor works, but I'm not sure about voltages in wiring. If the battery is new, then it must be either a starter motor or the wiring. There's a good article describing it in details:
www-howacarworks-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.howacarworks.com/ignition-system/checking-the-starter-circuit.amp?amp_gsa=1&_js_v=a9&usqp=mq331AQIUAKwASCAAgM%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16797811545526&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.howacarworks.com%2Fignition-system%2Fchecking-the-starter-circuit
@@wawayltd I think if I can can get the positive nut off give it a little clean and then do a starter motor test without taking the starter out by doing the same thing you did when you took the starter out will confirm if its working or not....where did you get that probe with the crocodile clip from....am struggling to find a decent one?
I think I got that from Maplin, which is closed for a while. Try to look on Amazon or eBay for "alligator clips test leads"
Great tutorial-very clear and easy for the average diy person to understand..
Thank you :) There will be more.
best video i seen in a months
Thanks Deividas! 😎👍
What if you replace the starter but it doesn’t engage the flywheel?? I’ve tried 3 different starters. A buddy said something about the timing and compression. Any info would be great. 2004 Vw GLI 1.8t
Some starters may have different sprockets. Make sure that the sprocket on a new starter is tue same as the original. That's the only thing I can think of.
Thanks. Best explaination i ever seen for starter testing. ...just one question....i have same car and want to know how many teeth must bendix drive have for this specific vehicle.. My father in law have same car but he replaced with 10 teeth Bendix. I measured flywheel teeth distance against bendix teeth distance and it didn't match, which caused starter not engaging. So i suspect it should be a 8 teeth bendix. Want to ask here before i remove my own starter to double check my theory of the teeth since he has same car as me
I don't have that car for few years now, but if you pause the video somewhere on 20:05 you can see it has 10 teeth. That is 1.9tdi engine, year 1999.
@@wawayltd thanks for reply...i took out my own starter and it also has 10 teeth...turned out it is the flywheel teeth which is worned out causing slipping of starter and not engaging.....sooooo major headache ahead of a major job removing flywheel :(
Good luck with that one...
Great video! Could I do the same test on the motor/solenoid before removing the unit?
If you are able to see/hear what's going on with it, why not?
Hi,
If I tap the solenoid and car starts does that mean that the motor is fine but just the solenoid needs replacing thanks?
Hello, in what way do you tap solenoid?
Fantastic video ty.
What if it only shows 11.86 volts when testing the ignition wire that goes to the solenoid? I had the starter rebuilt but I'm still having starting issues. Battery shows good, as does the alternator.
Are we talking about that little control wire or big positive live wire? Because they both go to solenoid..
WheelsAndMotors the little control wire, coming from the ignition. Not the big positive wire from the battery
Try to measure voltage on the battery terminals when engine is not running - it should be over 12 Volts, also when you starting the engine the voltage should normally drop, but not lower than 11.5, if it drops lower then that, then probably battery is not in great condition. Could be not be bad battery itself or something draining it. Also make sure that multimeter is in voltage mode, not amperage that can cause short circuit (just in case).
Thank you for the help. I had the battery checked and the alternator as well, and had everything set properly while testing (voltage mode). Something just wasn't adding up. I ended up taking the starter back to the rebuilder and had them do it over again, and now it's working great.
This video helped me a lot, thanks again!
Thanks for doing the video, really useful
You're very welcome 👍
Hey I bought a second hand car and I noticed something. Where the positive cable connects to the starter there’s also another cable there. What could that cable be for?
Not sure. Maybe some sort of sensor to measure voltage on a starter?
Great video, thank you so much :) The diagnosis and the how it works portion was spot on!
Thanks Jean 😊
at 6:37 the wire is exposed too. Great video!!
Good point. Thanks 👍
What a fantastic video..excellent explanation and video clarity.
Thanks Ernie 😊👍
Hi I am changing my starter motor but the nut that holds the power steering bracket on dose not want to budge any advice on this would be great
WD-40 ?
@@wawayltd tried that mate it's just not budgeing I am going to try again today
Good luck mate, I don't even know how to help you with this. Try googling how to break stuck nut/bolt loose...
Awesome video..very detailed I should be able to attempt the repair after watching this video GREAT JOB !!!
Thanks 😊
thank you for the good video,.! can this be done without car lift ? ;Golf4 2.0 Y2000
It's going to be difficult to access bottom bolt of a starter motor. I think if you start DIY on your car, jack and stands is one if the most essential things.
@@wawayltd i have a jack but my new car is lowered. Cant get the jack underneath
Very nice! But am I right to blame him if my cold engine starts fast, but only 3cylinders(thats how it feels), often completely suffers within 5sec. Often I can avoid this with softly pumping the pedal. Second try it mostly works and the engine is working well after few seconds. So maybe he is to weak because of old grease or bad connection??
Greetings from Germany!
I don't know.. I wouldn't blame starter if engine misfiring. Glow plugs maybe?
@@wawayltd thx for superfast reply, so I'll go for, in my case spark plugs, new after 4yrs and 50.000km to eliminate that . But the problem is not that new. In my 2001 200.000km Bora azj 2.0L, last week we had to flush all the oil out of the cooling circle, just because that tiny oil warmer got leaky and now I want to spend him some more repairs and diagnosis this year.
Please don't get me wrong, I'm not giving a diagnosis - that was just guessing. I'm not a mechanic, and I don't have much experience with petrol engines.
I hope you'll get it sorted.
Thanks. Did it with bora mk4. Everything was done under the hood. Thanks a lot.
You're very welcome 👍
You just super earned a subscriber! Thank you brother!
You're welcome 👍
Is there a typical number of years that a starter is estimated to last? I realize this can vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on how often a starter is used. I'm interested in a very rough estimate based on a VW MKIV 2.8L V6 driven every day. For example, should a starter in this vehicle typically last 10 years? Fifteen years? Twenty years? Also, is a Bosch replacement starter better than a VW OEM starter?
I'm a taxi driver, I do lots of miles. Currently have VW Sharan with 378.000 miles on a clock, previous car was also VAG - Audi A6 that has done over 400K miles. None of them had any issues with starter motor. Considering amount of times I start and stop engine every day, I have impression that they (starter motors) last forever.
Maybe there are some other conditions for starters to fail, maybe lack of use? I'm not sure..
Bosch is a good brand, I don't know what brand VW uses on their assembly lines - in my eyes they are both good.
@@wawayltd Thank you. I asked the question because I'm preparing to refresh many components on my 2004 VW GTI 2.8L with 140,000 miles for the purpose of assured reliability: clutch, water pump, coolant hoses, coolant pipe, thermostat housing, thermostat, serpentine belt, tensioner, alternator, spark plugs, coils, possibly the secondary air pump, engine mounts, timing chain, guides and tensioners, oil cooler seal, entire suspension, and rebuild the brake calipers. Considering the depth of maintenance and the amount of components being removed, I want to be certain that other opportunistic maintenance that should be considered, is included during this substantial refresh/tune-up. As you know most components in the MKIV engine bay are difficult to access unless they're directly on top of the engine or directly below. Since many components need to be removed to access other components, I want to be certain I'm including in this refresh/tune-up, all components that are likely approaching the end of their useful life. This is why I asked about the starter. When the tune up is complete, I want to have the same confidence in the vehicle's reliability as the day it was bought new from the car dealer. Yes, it will cost a lot of money, but I'm willing to pay in exchange for the piece of mind knowing that I can drive the car across country without any worries for many years to come.
I really like your enthusiasm 👍
140.000 miles is definitely time for new alternator, especially if it wasn't changed before.
@@wawayltd The alternator is original. I have started noticing the headlights dimming at certain times, leading me to believe the alternator is beginning to fail. As a result, I stopped using the heated seats and air conditioner in order to put less of a load on the alternator. However, I want to be able to reliably use the fully designed functionality of these systems, which is why all of the components mentioned are being replaced. I'm the original owner of this vehicle. I like the car and would like to keep it until it reaches 250,000 miles. Reliability is very important to me. I do not want the car sitting in a garage every couple months with a new problem to fix. I want to fix all immanent or potential problems now so the car can be driven reliably with no concerns on long road trips. Now that you more fully understand my perspective, if you have other suggestions for me during this tune-up, please let me know. Thank you for understanding.
Very good mechanic explains very well
Thanks 😊
Fantastic video,just what I was looking for thankyou
You're welcome, Stuart 👍
Best complete video! Thanks
Thanks 😊
nice job on explaining the whole job on testing and removal
+Ed Ginsberg Thank you :) there will be more.
Excellent! Very clear and a great help for me.
You're very welcome 👍
Excellent video very helpful. Very valuable resource nicely presented.
Thanks John 👍
Great video, very skillful mechanic and excellent teacher. Also funny (“If you know some incredible specialist who will do it for free, (then try fix the motor)…” rotf
Thanks 🤓
thank you so much, saved me a lot of time with this excellent how to, made troubleshooting and repair a snap!
You're very welcome :) Glad if it helps.
This is a nice explanation sir.. Keep good work
Thanks 😊
Installed it in 5 minutes. Great tutorial
5 minutes is impressive time.. You should work for Formula 1 :)
Does anyone know if these instructions will work for a 2005 golf or if there was a change in the process between 2004 and 2005?
Thank you! For the 1.4 engine, the starter is in the same position, under the battery?
I think so. Normally, starter always by gearbox/flywheel.
Will this be the same process for a 2004 Vw Jetta?!
If not same then very similar.
Well explained and documented sir !!!
Thanks 😎👍
Do you just pull the starter out when the bolts are removed? Mine is stuck. Applied some rust remover and will try again tomorrow
It can get sticky with the rust, but there's nothing holding it apart from those bolts - give it a knock.
So the story continues. As I couldnt bother to borrow a tester from my mate, I went for the disassembly option. After lots of hammering with a screwdriver, I was able to pull the damn thing out and the sprocket did come out and spin. So disassembled back together, put some grease on the cable connector and it started again!
However, the thing lasted exactly 2 days and today it happened again, but after a slow crank. So I thought maybe my battery is dead. After pushing the car on, went home and borrowed the tester this time :)
Surprisingly, the battery stays at over 14V while on, when off at 12.7 and drops to 12.3 when I attempt to start. The cable also gives over 12V when starting, so I am a bit puzzled now. Thinking of making a cable to connect the solenoid and main signal cable in between to confirm if its a bad connector. Does this make sense?
Don't know mate, from what you said - voltage seems to be normal, as it should be... Are you sure putting grease on connections would help electrical contact?
Excellently explained!
Thanks 😷👍
Will any mk4 golf starter motor go into my 1.9tdi or does it have to be from same engine car?
Check if part number is the same on your search results..
Beautiful work! Thanks! Maybe you have a video with what inside a starter and how to change all of whats inside?
No, I don't - sorry :(
Very nice, real detailed, help a lot. Well done and thank you very much!
Thanks :)
Amazing thanks for sharing knowledge.
Mine cranks first time but then fails to crank when engine is hot after a long drive, I think it could be the starter.
Thanks :) Hope it helps.
lovely job mate. I saw as you have a lot of tools, did you hear about Bergen tools?
+Florin Mironeasa Just been on their website. looks like they sell... tools :)
Great video. Thank you teaching me.
You're welcome 🍺
excellent video!! is it possible to do without a jack? only thing I dont have
If you can get everywhere without a jack, good for you.. You can also use ramps or like a grove in the garage (not sure what it's called). If you are using jack though - DO NOT forget about stands, people die when jacks failing.
Excellent Demonstration!!!
Thanks 😊👍
Can i make all those tests and the starter ist installed.
If you are able to disconnect all connections and get good access... I don't know, depends on the car - you can try...
Helpful video! Thank you for uploading 👍✌️
You're very welcome 😊
При заводке мотора, гудит стартер или визг издаёт на гольф 4, after Start my engine on get weird noise from starter golf mk4 1.9. Pěc dziněja palaišanas starteris dimd, rûc, starter 1 year old, what's the problem?
Скорее всего проблема с обгонной муфтой. Её ещё называют "бендикс". Я не пробовал разбирать сам мотор стартера того Гольфа, мне кажется современные стартеры так просто не разбираются. Да и Гольфа того у меня уже нет. Если стартер с гарантией, я бы обратился к продавцам. Если нет, то проще купить новый или б/у. Если интересует тема этих бендиксов, вот ссылка на хорошее видео:
ruclips.net/video/vkbsqtZNJDg/видео.html
after removing the starter...it was fine,,,tested good....my issue was a worn out ignition switch.
Is it easy to change the brushes on these?
Hi Colin, I never tried to do it myself, but as far as I know it's not easy. If you're paying someone to do it, you'll be better off buying another motor.
@@wawayltd Thanks for your reply. Have since found out its fairly easy as long as commutater isn't badly worn. Cheers
Good to know, thanks :) You can make a good video out of it ;)
great videos, the best explanation on the web
Thanks Ophir :)
You have made my day. Thank you. subscribed and liked.
Thanks Geoffrey 😷👍
?Is it the same process to put it in and mine is a 2,0petrol, does it matter'
Principle is the same - petrol or diesel. Perhaps starter motor for diesel must be a bit stronger.. Actually I have a video about starter motor for Toyota Avensis, petrol - starter motor looks very similar.
Cheers!
Cheers mate, lost my Haynes manual and thought id have to pull it from underneath!
You're very welcome Thomas :)
I don’t get it ...tested solenoid worked fine .. then tested motor worked fine , then how did you come up with result that faulty solenoid?... pls explain ...
That starter motor in the video doesn't have a fault. I took it out just for educational purposes of the video. I didn't say that solenoid is faulty - just explained what can be done if it is.
Thank you 🙏
Your starter looks like my starter of my vw polo classic, but in my case the solenoid work when I connect the positive cable.( after many trying) But in the car it's doesn't work.
If starter works as it should, but doesn't work in the car, I think there should be a problem with wiring or connector... Or depending how it behaves - bad battery?
testing my starter motor and it doesn't spin when i short out the motor and nothing happens when I short out the ignition connection either
Probably dead starter...
@@wawayltd ordered a second hand one from a low mileage car off ebay.
great videos by the way, I used your how to do the brakes for the MOT and saved myself a few hundred pounds.
Thanks, glad if it helps 😷👍
@@wawayltd fitted the replacement starter and it fired straight up, I'm mobile again, thanks for the great guide
You're very welcome 👍
what is wrong when the starter cog does not retract quickly enough? mine is starting the motor ok but gets spun by the flywheel and makes a loud screeching sound
I think there are few reasons that can cause it. First, when engine started, starter still gets signal on the relay keeps working - which is highly unlikely.. The other 2 reasons best to test when you take starter out, because likely it would be mechanical problem. It's either worn out spring that doesn't pull it back - try to pull sprocket out and see if it pulls back.. However most likely you have a problem with bendix. When starter motor engages, there's like a bearing that with torque from starter locks itself and turns the flywheel, once engine started, it turns faster than starter motor, so that bearing-bendix gets loose and starter motor sprocket goes back. To check bendix, you can turn the sprocket on starter with your hand fast one way, you should feel that you turning the motor inside, and when you change direction it should be loose, like you turning sprocket only. If you'll be turning motor both ways - that means bendix is stuck.
Unfortunately, I don't have any practical experience of replacing bendix or lubricating it. And I just had a look on eBay, if it's a Golf we talking about, I can see - they sell used starters for as low as 20 pounds, cheaper than new bendix. If I would have this problem - I would try to lubricate it, to see if it helps. If bendix is damaged, then I'm not sure how to replace it - probably would buy a new/used/reconditioned starter motor. Hope it helps :)
Two bolts on top and grease inside pal on all gears and moving connections easy job.
Great video and info you explain things simply and easy to follow look forward to more thanks
thanks Terry :)
Very good video mate
Thank you very much!
When open my key in my car golf 4 I heir sound caming from this thing I don't know what I do sound like giwoooo after is go on with key
Solenoid?
@@wawayltd yes
I would also think so..
Great video, very nice explanation, it saved me a lot of time
Thanks Dave :)
Thx man, perfect tutorial and easy to follow. Cheers from Slovenia :)
Thanks Teo 👍
Thanks.very well done. A great help.
You're welcome 👍