Is my starter motor on the way out?

[mustard]

Sometimes on turning the key, the starter motor seems to run over ie makes a nasty noise!

Is this the starter motor about to expire?

Cheers

[protomor]

sounds like its grinding on your fly wheel. Um, its not going out, it could just be bad. Replace it ASAP!

Although, mine does that and I still am too lazy to replace it.

[mustard]

Ok, so a replacement starter motor is the order of the day

How specific are they ie. will any M20 engine cars one be correct? or does it need to come from a late engined 325i manual etc?