Q: There is a grinding noise when I start my car.

asked by on January 20, 2017

My car is able to start up, but I noticed yesterday as I was doing several errands and starting and shutting down my car regularly it would make a grinding noise as I start it up. I am not a car guy really at all, so I am not sure, but my first thought was the starter. Is there something else that could be the problem or ways I could check to see what could be the problem? I have also noticed that when it is cold out my car has a little bit of trouble turning over or starting. It always starts on it's first try, but definitely sounds like it has some trouble starting.

My car has 90000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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

Truck pulling to right when in 4 wheel drive.
When in four wheel drive the pull to the right may be caused by play or another issue with your right front CV axle. This play from the CV axle could cause a wobble of the wheel on the right...
Car having problems starting.
These cars are known for having faulty crankshaft position sensors. This sensor can cause an extended cranking condition, which eventually turns into a vehicle that won't start. Checking for diagnostic codes stored in your power train control module (PCM) would...
Truck makes loud noise when accelerating
Hello. There are multiple things that may cause loud noises when stepping on the gas pedal such as axles,valve lifters, and catalytic convertors. I suggest having a technician inspect the vehicle as again there are several things that may cause...
Air conditioning not cold enough
Hello. The first step is to connect a scanner and see if there are any codes, and if possible, see what data is available to see if any sensors are out of range. Then a set a gauges should be...
Back brake clamped afteer releasing the E-brake
The first thing you want to do if you feel it jerking like that is quickly jack up the wheel and pull off the tires and see if they are sticking. If they are sticking, a lot of times, the...
In my i10 the EPS is not sowing (switching ON)
Hello. There are known problems with the software in the electronic power-assist steering system for 2012 models. There is a technical service bulletin (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-use-a-technical-service-bulletin-tsb-to-diagnose-and-repair-a-car-by-valerie-johnston) (322996) which instructs dealer service to update the software in vehicles with EPS problems. I would...
What does check parking assist mean when I put it in reverse
In most cases this means the sensors need to be cleaned. Have all the rear bumper and front bumper sensors cleaned and then try system again. If problem persists then have a mechanic like one from YourMechanic test the park...
Throttle Position Sensor
Hi There, It sounds like what you are describing is an intermittent throttle response when pressing the gas pedal. If this is correct, this may be related to the throttle position sensor. The throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement) monitors the throttle...
What is the cost to have an engine replaced? How many hours labor? 2001 Toyota Prius
Hello - unfortunately, this is not a service YourMechanic offers at this time. Thanks for thinking of us however!

Related articles

Top 10 PZEV Cars for Eco-Friendly Drivers
Teddy Leung / Shutterstock.com The whole idea of a PZEV (that is, a partial zero-emissions vehicle), seems paradoxical. You’d think it’d have to either be zero-emissions or not in the category at all. But as contradictory as...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Families
If If it’s time for you to search for the top used cars specifically for families, check out the list we’ve put together of the top five. The list of must-haves Typical items that families are looking for in their...
Essential Things to Know About the Toyota Prius Hybrid Car
The Toyota Prius first came out in 1997. The current Prius gets 58 miles per gallon and can travel a mile without any gas when it's in EV mode.