Q: Starter makes a lot of noise before the motor finally starts

asked by on November 06, 2015

Even though it is pretty much new and only has 32,000 miles on it, my 2011 Jeep Patriot has a really difficult time starting up in the morning. It can take like ten seconds to actually get the motor to turn over. Is this a normal thing for a little bigger vehicle in cold weather, or is this a starter/engine problem? I want to fix this issue early if it is serious.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Do I Need to Readjust My Car Mirrors Before Driving?
In one word, yes. Anytime that you get into a vehicle, check and adjust your mirrors as needed (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/why-you-should-adjust-your-mirrors-before-your-drive) before you enter any roadway. This ensures that you can see clearly to the rear of your vehicle. We're talking about...
What does the Malfunction Warning light mean?
The Malfunction Warning light is located on the instrument panel, and is connected to your emissions system. When your vehicle’s emissions are not as expected, the Malfunction Warning light will illuminate. The light will also come on if the system...
Warped rotars
Hello. I will be glad to help you with your question. There is no failure mode of the ESC system that would cause, or lead to, warped rotors. The only explanations for a problem of that sort is continuous, or...
Can my antifreeze leak be linked to my transmission problem?
Hi there. You will need to first find the coolant leak and address the leak and get it fixed. The engine may overheat and cause even more problems. The transmission or engine misfires could be from the coolant leak if...
Cylinder number 4 is misfiring black dry carbon on spark plug code P0304
Hi there. It would appear you have covered all the bases replacing components for your P0304 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0303-obd-ii-trouble-code-cylinder-3-misfire-detected-by-spencer-clayton) engine misfire. As you already know, replacing components can be expensive and time consuming without resolution. Assuming the engine is mechanically sound, good...
How often should I change the rear differential fluid on a 2016 Acura RDX?
Hi there. The fluid should be changed about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles to remove all contanimates and metal from the gears as they wear. I recommend having your differential serviced and use the OEM specified lubrication to maximize the...
Amber light laws in Iowa
Hi there. I wish we could give you a direct answer here, but your best source is to contact the DMV in Iowa to ask them about amber lights and whether they are legal in your state.
Sir my car is Chevrolet aveo uva, some times car engine is off when break suddenly
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve causing your engine idle to fluctuate and eventually stall. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) is a small valve on the engine's intake system...
Hi, i have a 2011 2.4l Chevy Eqinox with 109,000 miles my car started driving sluggish i pulled over on the side of the road turn
Hi Love. Thanks for contacting us today. On many modern cars, trucks and SUV, there is a reduced power warning light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/reduced-power-light-is-on-inspection) that illuminates typically when the symptoms you are describing occur. If this warning light did not illuminate on...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 Buick Lucerne
2011 2011 marked the final year of production for the Buick Lucerne, a venerable full-sized sedan that offers ample room in the interior. The car was noted for the significant amount of interior space and trunk space offered, although it...
2005 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2005 Chevrolet Blazer: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport SUVs are a class all of their own; these vehicles are meant for a fun drive through the woods and across the trail – but not necessarily to Grandma’s house! Think instead about going through the creek and through...
The Best Used Cars to Buy That Can Be Towed Behind an RV
Summer Summer is a great time for a road trip, but often travelers like bringing all the conveniences of home along, in the form of an RV. Then they tow their car behind it – sometimes this practice is called...