Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Starter motor

Understanding the Starter Motor on the 2012 Subaru Exiga: Purpose, Maintenance, and Replacement Tips

The 2012 Subaru Exiga, a practical and spacious crossover popular in various markets including Australia, definitely uses a starter motor as part of its engine management system. Like most petrol and diesel vehicles, the starter motor plays a vital role in getting the engine running. So when looking into servicing or potential replacement, it's important to understand what the starter motor does and how to look after it properly.

At its core, the starter motor is an electric motor that's responsible for physically turning the engine over when the ignition key is turned or the start button is pressed. Without it, the engine would have no way of initiating the combustion process needed to run. It works by drawing power from the car battery and transmitting that power to crank the engine's flywheel, which sets the engine's pistons and valves into action. This mechanical movement allows fuel and air to enter the cylinders and start the combustion cycle.

The starter motor is usually a compact, cylindrical component mounted on the engine's transmission bell housing. In the 2012 Subaru Exiga, it's positioned in such a way that it engages with the flywheel teeth using a small gear called the pinion gear. This gear moves out and meshes with the flywheel when the starter motor is activated, then disengages once the engine fires up. This clever arrangement prevents the starter motor from being damaged by the engine turning much faster than the motor itself once running.

Because the starter motor relies heavily on the electrical system, you'll often find that problems with it show up as slow engine cranking or a complete failure to start. Sputtering, clicking noises when trying to start, or a lack of sound altogether are pretty solid signs something might be amiss. These symptoms often suggest issues such as worn brushes inside the motor, a weak solenoid not engaging the pinion gear properly, poor electrical connections, or a failing armature.

Keeping the starter motor on a 2012 Subaru Exiga healthy is mostly about ensuring the electrical system is in good shape. Regular servicing should include checks on the battery condition and tightness and cleanliness of all electrical connections, including battery terminals and wiring to the starter. Corrosion or loose connections can lead to voltage drops, making the starter motor work harder or fail altogether.

In addition to electrical checks, it's wise to listen out for any odd noises when starting the vehicle, especially repeated clicking or grinding. These noises can point towards mechanical issues within the starter itself or with the flywheel teeth. Early diagnosis and replacement of a faulty starter can save time and avoid being stranded on the roadside.

When it does come time to replace the starter motor, the process for a 2012 Subaru Exiga is fairly straightforward for a competent DIYer or a professional mechanic. The vehicle's service manual provides a clear guide on accessing the starter motor which typically involves disconnecting the battery, removing electrical connections from the starter, and unbolting it from the engine block. A new or reconditioned starter motor can then be fitted in reverse order. It's important to make sure the new starter matches the original equipment specifications to avoid compatibility issues.

As starter motors can be a bit pricey, some owners opt to have the starter motor rebuilt, where worn brushes and bearings are replaced rather than doing a full swap. That's often a good budget-friendly approach, especially if the solenoid and other critical parts are still in good condition. However, if the motor has suffered significant wear or damage, a new starter is usually the more reliable long-term fix.

Overall, the starter motor on the 2012 Subaru Exiga is a dependable component that rarely gives trouble when the vehicle is well maintained. Basic upkeep of the electrical system and being alert to unusual starting noises helps keep this essential part in tip-top shape. When problems do occur, prompt attention and either a rebuild or replacement will get the car back on the road quickly. Knowing a bit about this part makes a big difference if you're servicing or troubleshooting your Subaru Exiga.