Introduction

The automotive servicing starting system plays a vital role in any vehicle; it enables
the engine to start and operate smoothly. It’s a crucial component of automotive starting
system to ensure the vehicle can begin its operation by converting electrical energy
from the battery into mechanical energy to turn the engine over. The system consists of
main components: the battery, ignition switch, starter motor solenoid, and flywheel,
which work to start the vehicle. In the Automotive Servicing Starting System, it is
essential to understand how to diagnose and repair the issues that may prevent a
vehicle from starting. Trainers need to be familiar with the mechanics and electrical
aspects of the starting system to efficiently troubleshoot problems such as weak
batteries, faulty starters, or damaged wiring. This module focuses on providing both
theoretical knowledge and practical skills for servicing the automotive starting system.

Overview
The key components of Automotive Servicing Starting System:
 Starting System - it is the heart of the electrical system.
 Battery - also known as lead-acid storage battery, is an electrochemical device that
produces voltage and delivers current.
 Ignition Switch - it controls the starting system.
 Solenoid - Typically mounted on the starter motor, the solenoid acts as a relay.
 Flywheel - The flywheel is connected to the engine’s crankshaft. It provides the
necessary rotation to start the engine when engaged by the starter motor.
 Wiring and Relays - Proper wiring and relays facilitate the flow of electricity
between components, ensuring effective operation of the starting system.
 Neutral Safety Switch - switch opens (denies current to) the starter circuit when
the transmission is in any gear but neutral or park on automatic transmissions.
 Starter Relay - is a device that allows a small amount of electrical current to control
a large amount of current.
 Battery Cables - are large diameter, multistranded wire which carry the high current
(250+ amps) necessary to operate the starter motor.
 Starter Motor - is a powerful electric motor, with a small gear (pinion) attached to
the end.
 How to Use your Module
Welcome to the module of Automotive Servicing Starting System!

This module in Automotive Servicing Starting System is designed to provide both

theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills in servicing and troubleshooting the
automotive starting system. In this module, it contains the understanding of the
components of the starting system, practical skills that should applied in real-life
scenario. In this module, it encompasses the knowledge, skills and attitudes in this
Automotive Servicing.

To accomplish each learning objective in this module, you must complete a number of
learning exercises. It includes the , Introduction , Overview, Information Sheet, Pre-test,
Set of learning activities, Formative test and Summative evaluation. After completing,
you can get a certificate in this module of Automotive Servicing Starting System.

Remember To:
• Read Introduction and Overview of Automotive Servicing Starting System. After
reading, proceed on how to use the module.
• Read on how to use the module of Automotive Servicing Starting System.
• After reading on how to use the module, proceed to answer the pre-test .
• After answering the pre-test, check your answer using the answer key before
proceeding to the Information Sheet.
• Read the Information Sheet. After reading the Information Sheet, proceed to learning
activities.
• Perform the given learning activities in Automotive Servicing Starting System.
• After performing the learning activities in Automotive Servicing Starting System, use
feedback to evaluate the performance.
• Answer the formative test, proceed to answering the formative test and check your
answers using the answer key before proceeding to the summative evaluation.
• Answer the summative test, it serves as your final exam in this module. Once
completed, you can get a certificate of completing the module in Automotive Servicing
Starting System.
 PRETEST
Direction: Select the correct answer for the following questions. Write the letter of your
choice on the space provided before each question. STRICTLY NO ERASURES
ALLOWED!!
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. It is considered as is the heart of the electrical system.
a. Battery
b. Engine
c. Ignition Switch
d. Starting System

2. What is one of the primary functions of an automotive battery?

a. To only store energy without delivering current.
b. To supply current to the starter motor and ignition system while cranking.
c. To act solely as a backup for the alternator.
d. To replace the alternator entirely in powering the vehicle.

3. What occurs when the ignition switch is in the "Start" position?

a. Power is supplied to all electrical components, including the radio.
b. Power is supplied only to the ignition circuit and the starter motor.
c. The engine runs continuously while the starter is engaged.
d. The vehicle's electrical system is completely disabled.

4. What is the primary function of the neutral safety switch in automatic

transmissions?
a. To allow the starter to engage in any gear.
b. To open the starter circuit when the transmission is in any gear other than Neutral or
Park.
c. To control the vehicle's headlights when the transmission is in gear.
d. To disable the backup lights when the transmission is in reverse.
5. What component is essential for carrying the high current needed to operate the
starter motor in a vehicle?
a. Ignition switch
b. Alternator
c. Battery cables
d. Fuel pump

6. Which component of a starter motor provides the sliding electrical connection

between the motor windings and the brushes?
a. Starter armature
b. Field winding
c. Commutator
d. Brushes

7. What is the primary function of the brushes in a starter motor?

a. To carry battery current to the spinning windings via the commutator.
b. To connect the battery to the starter solenoid.
c. To create a magnetic field around the armature.
d. To provide structural support to the armature.

8. What happens if the alternator in a vehicle fails and can no longer produce
electricity?
a. The vehicle will still run indefinitely on battery power.
b. The battery will quickly drain, leading to a loss of power for the starting system and
other electrical components.
c. The fuel system will be unaffected and will continue to operate normally.
d. The alternator will automatically restart after a few minutes

9. What is the role of the starter solenoid in a vehicle's starting system?

a. It connects the positive battery cable and activates the starter motor when engaged.
b. It regulates the fuel supply to the engine.

c. It cools the engine during operation.

d. It filters the electrical current to prevent surges.

10 What are common signs of issues with the car starter system?
a Increased fuel efficiency
b. Consistent electrical performance across all components
c. A smooth and quiet engine operation
d. Corroded terminals or loose connections leading to difficulty or failure to start
Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, the students should be able to:
1. Identify the starting system components and its faults and remedies
2. Perform the repair or replace the starting system components
3. Appreciate the importance of safety procedures when working on the servicing
starting system

Information Sheet
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICING STARTING SYSTEM

The starting system is the heart of the electrical system. Its operation begins when
the key is inserted into the ignition switch. A fully operational starting system cranks the
engine, which helps initiate the fuel combustion process in the ignition system.

A small amount of current then passes through the Neutral Safety Switch to a Starter
Relay or Starter Solenoid which allows high current to flow through the Battery Cables
to the Starter Motor. The starter motor then cranks the engine so that the piston, moving
downward, can create a suction that will draw a Fuel/Air mixture into the cylinder, where
a spark created by the Ignition System will ignite this mixture. If the Compression in the
engine is high enough and all this happens at the right Time, the engine will start.
Six Parts of Starting System:

Battery
The automotive battery, also known as a
lead-acid storage battery, is an electrochemical device that
produces voltage and delivers current. In an automotive
battery we can reverse electrochemical action, thereby
recharging the battery, which will then give us many years of
service. The purpose of the battery is to supply current to the
starter motor, provide current to the ignition system while
cranking, to supply additional current when the demand is
higher than the alternator can supply and to act as an
electrical reservoir.

The automotive battery requires special handling. The electrolyte (water) inside the
battery is a mixture of sulfuric acid and water. Sulfuric acid is very corrosive; if it gets on
your skin, it should be flushed with water immediately; if it gets in your eyes, it should be
flushed with a mild solution of baking soda and water immediately and you should see a
doctor as soon as possible. Sulfuric acid will be eaten through clothing, so it is advisable
to wear old clothing when handling batteries. It is also advisable to wear goggles and
gloves while servicing the battery. When charging, the battery will emit hydrogen gas; it
is therefore extremely important to keep flames and sparks away from the battery.
Because batteries emit hydrogen gas while charging, the battery case cannot be
completely sealed. Years ago, there was a vent cap for each cell, and we had to
replenish the cells when the electrolyte evaporated. Today’s batteries (maintenance
free) have small vents on the side of the battery; the gases emitted have to go through
baffles to escape. During this process the liquid condenses and drops back to the
bottom of the battery. There’s needed to replenish or add water to the battery.

Today’s batteries are rated in cold cranking amps. This represents the current that the
battery can produce for 30 seconds at 0 degrees before the battery voltage drops below
7.2 volts. An average battery today will have a CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) of 500. With
the many different makes and models of cars available today, batteries will come in
many different sizes, but all sizes come in many CCAs. Make sure you get a battery
strong enough to operate properly in your car. The length of the warranty is not
indicative of the strength of the battery.
Battery cables are large diameter, multistranded wire which carry the high current (250+
amps) necessary to operate the starter motor. Some battery cables will have a smaller
wire, soldered to the terminal, which is used to either operate a smaller device or to
provide an additional ground. When the smaller cable burns it indicates a high
resistance in the heavy cable. Even maintenance free batteries need periodic inspection
and cleaning to insure they stay in good working order. Inspect the battery to see that it
is clean and that it is held securely in its carrier. Some corrosion naturally collects
around the battery. Electrolyte condensation contains corrosive sulfuric acid, which eats
away the metal of battery terminals, cable ends and battery hold down parts. To clean
away the corrosion, use a mixture of baking soda and water, and wash all the metal
parts around the battery, being careful not to allow any of the mixture to get into the
battery (batteries with top cell caps and vents). Rinse with water. Remove the battery
cables from the battery (negative cable first), wire brush the inside of the cable end and
the battery post. Reinstall the cables (negative end last). Coat all exposed metal
parts( paint or grease can be used) so that the sulfuric acid cannot get on the metal.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch allows the driver to distribute electrical current to where it is needed.
There are generally 5 key switch positions that are used:

Lock – All circuits are open ( no current supplied) and the steering wheel is in the lock
position. In some cars, the transmission lever cannot be moved in this position. If the
steering wheel is applying pressure to the locking mechanism, the key might be hard to
turn. If you do experience this type of condition, try moving the steering wheel to remove
the pressure as you turn the key.

Off – All circuits are open, but the steering wheel can be turned and the key cannot be
extracted.

Run – All circuits, except the starter circuit, are closed (current is allowed to pass through).
Current is supplied to all but the starter circuit.
Start – Power is supplied to the ignition circuit and the starter motor only. That is why the
radio stops playing in the start position. This position of the ignition switch is spring loaded
so that the starter is not engaged while the engine is running. This position is used
momentarily, just to activate the starter.

Accessory – Power is supplied to all but the ignition and starter circuit. This allows you to
play the radio, work the power windows, etc. while the engine is not running.

Most ignition switches are mounted on the steering column. Some switches are actually two
separate parts;

• The lock into which you insert the key. This component also contains the mechanism to
lock the steering wheel and shifter.

• The switch which contains the actual electrical circuits. It is usually mounted on top of
the steering column just behind the dash and is connected to the lock by a linkage or rod.

Neutral Safety Switch

Switch opens (denies current to) the starter circuit when the transmission is in any gear
but Neutral or Park on automatic transmissions. This switch is normally connected to
the transmission linkage or directly on the transmission. Most cars utilize this same
switch to apply current to the back up lights when the transmission is put in reverse.
Standard transmission cars will connect this switch to the clutch pedal so that the starter
will not engage unless the clutch pedal is depressed. If you find that you have to move
the shifter away from park or neutral to get the car to start, it usually means that this
switch needs adjustment. If your car has an automatic parking brake release, the
neutral safety switch will control that function also.
Starter Relay

A relay is a device that allows a small amount of electrical current to control a large
amount of current. An automobile starter uses a large amount of current (250+ amps) to
start an engine. If we were to allow that much current to go through the ignition switch,
we would not only need a very large switch, but all the wires would have to be the size
of battery cables (not very practical). A starter relay is installed in series between the
battery and the starter. Some cars use a starter solenoid to accomplish the same
purpose of allowing a small amount of current from the ignition switch to control a high
current flow from the battery to the starter. The starter solenoid in some cases also
mechanically engages the starter gear with the engine.

Battery Cables

Battery cables are large diameter, multistranded wire which carry the high current (250+
amps) necessary to operate the starter motor. Some have a smaller wire soldered to the
terminal which is used to either operate a smaller device or to provide an additional
ground. When the smaller cable burns, this indicates a high resistance in the heavy
cable.

Starter Motor
The starter motor is a powerful electric motor, with a small gear (pinion) attached to the
end. When activated, the gear is meshed with a larger gear (ring), which is attached to
the engine. The starter motor then spins the engine over so that the piston can draw in
a fuel/ air mixture, which is then ignited to start the engine.

When the engine starts to spin faster than the starter, a device called an overrunning
clutch (Bendix drive) automatically disengages the starter gear from the engine gear.

Inside the Starter Motor

1. Starter Solenoid
2. Starter Drive/Bendix
3. Starter Armateur
4. Starter Brushes
5. Starter Bearings

5 Common Issues of the Starting System that Require Auto Repair

 Failed Ignition Switch
The ignition has a couple important roles. When you turn the key it generates an
electrical pathway that powers the starter motor. It also creates the voltage necessary to
produce the first sparks in the spark plugs to ignite the air and fuel mix. If your ignition is
going out you may experience delayed engine cranking, flickering dashboard lights or
stalling just after the car starts. If you experience any of these be sure to speak with
your auto repair shop to find out the best way to have the problem fixed.

 Failed Alternator
The alternator produces electricity in the vehicle. If it is no longer able generate any
electricity the battery will quickly be drained and there will be nothing left to power the
rest of the starting system.
 Malfunctioning Starter Motor
The starter motor spins the flywheel to get the pistons moving up and down in order to
create the necessary combustion. If it is unable to properly do its job the motor will not
be able to spin. The most common sign of starter trouble is a loud click or series of
clicking that occurs as you turn the key.

 Fuel Delivery Problems

If there are insufficient amounts of gasoline being delivered to the combustion chamber
the car won't turn on. The issue generally is caused by a failed fuel pump, clogged fuel
filter or fuel injectors that are malfunctioning. Fuel delivery will result in an engine that
turns over and over without starting.

 Dead Battery
Perhaps the most common issue surrounding no start situations is a dead battery. If
your car does nothing when you turn the key then this is most likely the reason. You can
likely jump start your car, but depending on the age and condition of the battery, it may
need to be replaced.

Car Starter System Issues

Car starter issues come up suddenly and for several reasons. It could mean corroded
terminals or loose connections. A damaged starter system will start exhibiting problems,
and you will definitely notice, for it will become difficult or impossible to start your car.

Check the Battery Voltage

Find out whether you have enough juice to operate the starter motor. You do this by
using a voltmeter. With this device, you can measure the amount of voltage in your
battery.
 Set the voltmeter to 20 volts on the DC voltage scale.
 Turn on the meter. Connect the test leads across the battery terminals. Touch the
negative lead to the negative post, and same with the positive lead to the positive
post.
 Switch on your headlights.
 Check the display on the meter. Your battery should have between 12.4V, which
constitutes a 75% charge and 12.6V, which is a 100% charge. This is what’s
required to operate the starter motor.
 If you get a reading of less than 12.4V, you need to recharge the battery.
 If your battery is 3 to 4 years old, it’s best to run a hydrometer-check on your
battery. Through this, you will determine the health of your battery and find out if any
cells have failed.

Inspect Cables and Wires

Any corrosion prevents electrical flow. If you haven’t been paying any attention to your
battery or starter system, chances are, you’ve got corrosion. A layer of corrosion on
battery terminals should be dealt with by cleaning. Luckily, you can do so using a
mixture of baking soda and warm water.
 Mix 8 ounces of warm water for 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a small container.
 Thoroughly mix the solution.
 Disconnect the terminals from the battery and apply the solution to the terminals
and battery posts using a soft brush.
 Clean the battery top with the solution, carefully making sure that the solution
doesn’t get under the filler caps.
 Check the electrolyte level. The electrolyte levels should be at the bottom of the filler
rings. You may add distilled water to bring it to the correct level.
 Check the battery tray where the battery sits. Clean if necessary.
 Reconnect the terminals. Restart the engine.

Inspect the Starter Solenoid

The starter solenoid is a small cylinder on top of the starter. The positive battery cable
connects to the solenoid. If this fails, the car will not start.
 To check the solenoid, make sure to disable the starting system. You don’t want the
engine to start while checking the solenoid. Therefore, disconnect the thick wire
from the distributor cap. You can also do this by removing the fuel pump fuse.
 Ground the wire you disconnected from the distributor to a bolt with a jumper wire.
 Ask someone else to start the engine. Listen for sounds coming from the solenoid.
 If you hear clicking sounds, it means the electrical current is reaching the solenoid.
It means it’s properly working. If you hear a weak sound, check the wires connected
to the solenoid or starter relay.
 Also check for problematic wires. If they are loose or broken or disconnected, they
will prevent the electrical current from reaching the motor. If the wires are in
excellent condition, then the starter motor, solenoid or relay may have failed.

Check the Starter Motor

To check your starter motor, you need to lift the hood of your car to reach it. Depending
on the make of your car, it varies.
 Make sure the bolts are tight on the starter mounting. Loose bolts will prevent the
starter drive from engaging the flywheel, and you will hear a grinding noise when
you try to start the engine. This happens because the ring gear on the flywheel and
the pinion gear on the starter will clash.
 If the mounting bolts are tight, take out the starter motor and check the pinion gear.
Check the condition of the teeth on the pinion gear – signs of wear or damage will
prevent the starting of the engine.
 Using a screwdriver, try to see if you can rotate the gear in both directions. The gear
should only rotate in one direction. If it moves both ways or refuses to move at all,
it’s time to replace the starter.

Inspect the Engine Flywheel

Now that your starter motor is out, check the flywheel too. It is the large, heavy wheel
between the engine and transmission. This is what the pinion gear engages to start the
engine.
 Set your transmission to Neutral.
 Have someone else rotate the crankshaft — at the front and bottom of the engine
block — with the use of a ratchet and a socket. Depending on your car, you may
need to remove a wheel to access it.
 Observe the flywheel as it rotates. Check that the teeth are in good condition.
Damaged or missing teeth will prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine.
Missing or damaged teeth prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine.
 Learning Activities

ACTIVITY 1: IDENTIFYING AND CREATING A DIAGRAM OF COMPONENTS OF

THE STARTING SYSTEM
Objective: To familiarize the learners with the different components of the starting
system and understand their functions.
Tools/Equipment: Instructional model of starting system, vehicle, paper and ballpen,
Activity: Learners will work individually to identify and be familiarize with the different
components of the starting system and understand their functions. Learners will inspect
a real vehicle or an instructional material/model to locate the starting system
components such as the battery, starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch and flywheel.
After identifying, they will create a labeled diagram of the starting system with short
descriptions of each component’s role.

ACTIVITY 2: IGNITION SWITCH POSITION TESTING

Objective: Learners will learn how to test the different positions of the Ignition switch
(Off, Accessory, On, Start) and their functions in automotive starting system.
Type: Practical/Hands-on
Tools/Equipment: Multimeter, battery load tester, circuit tester, ignition switch removal
tool, screwdriver set, torque wrench, safety goggles and etc.
Activity: Learners will measure voltage at various points of the ignition switch circuit in
different switch positions and explain how each position activates different vehicle
components.
 POST-TEST
Direction: Select the correct answer for the following questions. Write the letter of your
choice on the space provided before each question. STRICTLY NO ERASURES
ALLOWED!!
Multiple Choice Questions: