Davis Bellew Are you a Subaru owner dealing with a faulty starter? Instead of relying on professional mechanics and spending a fortune, why not replace it at home and save money while learning car maintenance? In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on replacing a Subaru starter, including tools required, safety precautions, common mistakes to avoid, and troubleshooting.
Introduction
Subarus are reliable and durable cars, but starters can wear out over time, leading to frustrating engine problems. Luckily, replacing the starter at home is easy with the right tools and knowledge.
Tools Required
- Socket wrench
- Wrench set
- Jack stands
- New starter
- Screwdrivers
- Pliers
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Safety Precautions
Before beginning, make sure the car is parked on level ground, the engine is cool, and the battery is disconnected. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect from any harmful materials or fluids.
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Jack up the Subaru and use jack stands for safety.
- Locate the starter, typically underneath the engine near the transmission.
- Remove the negative cable from the battery with a socket wrench.
- Remove any other components blocking access to the starter.
- Disconnect the wire connectors from the starter using pliers. Take a picture or make a note of the wiring to ensure proper placement later.
- Use a wrench to remove the bolts attaching the starter to the engine.
- Remove the old starter from the engine bay.
- Install the new starter and attach it to the engine using the bolts and wrench.
- Reconnect the wire connectors to the new starter, ensuring the correct placement from earlier.
- Reattach any other components that were removed earlier.
- Reconnect the negative cable to the battery.
- Lower the car from the jack stands.
Testing the Starter
Once installation is complete, test the starter by attempting to start the engine. If it starts up cleanly, the installation is a success.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to disconnect the battery
- Improperly reconnecting the wire connectors
- Forgetting to reattach components removed earlier
Troubleshooting
If the engine does not start, ensure all wire connectors are properly placed and check for any other engine problems.
Tips and Tricks
- Label components as they are removed
- Take pictures for reference
- Clean the engine compartment while components are removed
With these steps, replacing a Subaru starter can be a simple and cost-effective process. By following safety precautions and proper installation techniques, even beginners can save money and learn about car maintenance.
