Recent Starter Replacement causing no key start?

Tiny
JOSHUACHESTER41
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 SATURN SL1
  • 1.9L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 201,000 MILES
I've recently replaced a faulty starter with a new one. About 3 or 4 days I replaced it, my car attempted to start without there being the key in it.
Monday, September 8th, 2025 AT 6:28 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,247 POSTS
O wow, exciting, so if the wiring at the starter (main power lug) is too close to the trigger wire it will cause this, here is a guide to help you see what I am talking about.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

If the wiring is okay you have a defective starter and need another. The wires at the red arrows cannot touch. Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response

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Monday, September 8th, 2025 AT 12:04 PM
Tiny
JOSHUACHESTER41
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Great! Thanks so Kuch Mr. Ken! Once I get the car jacked up again, I'll check it out. I live in an apartment with a car garage and it proves inonvenient in times like this.
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Monday, September 8th, 2025 AT 12:21 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yep, no worries, when you get a chance I will be here.
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Monday, September 8th, 2025 AT 4:53 PM
Tiny
JOSHUACHESTER41
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Here's a photo Mr. Ken. Sorry for the late response.
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Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 AT 12:08 PM
Tiny
JOSHUACHESTER41
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And some more
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Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 AT 12:16 PM
Tiny
JOSHUACHESTER41
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I can't tell if they're correct or not, but it seems like it.
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Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 AT 12:20 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yep, it is connected correctly, I would get a different starter, that one is defective. Thanks for the images and video, it helps.
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Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 AT 5:06 PM

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