A fault on a Fiat model, triggered by a corroded earth point which results in poor starting, is causing premature failures, says Autoelectro.
The starter motor for the Grande Punto 1.4 (2006- onwards), because of the poor electrical connection, has been known to crank excessively. As a result, the component begins to burn out and fail.
To avoid such problems, technicians are advised to remove the earth point, clean and lubricate it, before installing the replacement starter motor. However, if the fault has already occurred, check the condition of the earth point, which can usually be found under the windscreen washer reservoir, before fitting the replacement starter motor.
Below is a list of symptoms that indicate potential failure:
- Blue colour on armature shaft near pinion
- Rattling inside motor when starter motor is shaken
- Burnt smell from inside the starter motor
- Damaged teeth on starter motor
- Burnt/discoloured/melted/broken wire from solenoid to starter body
Failure to rectify the fault above will result in early failure of the replacement starter motor and the warranty will be void.
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