starting issue

[mods]

hi, i have a 325i auto and everytime i try to start the car the starter motor clicks and i have to turn the key a few times for it to start and when it does turn over and start it makes a grinding noise when it is firing up, i have been told it maybe a flywheel problem, is this the first thing i should look at or are thier any specialists on the zone any were near manchester , thanks

[HJ1981]

That grinding noise, could be the starter gear teeth or the flywheel teeth failing.

Only way to check is to remove the starter, at least the Throttle body needs to come off to gain some more room, worst case the intake manifold needs to come off to get full access to the starter.

Only then can you inspect both flywheel and starter gear teeth for wear.

[mods]

thanks mate i tried a few starter motors as i thought it will be that, but same problem is thier so it must be the flywheel, how much does it cost to change and source the flywheel for a 325i auto thanks

[HJ1981]

thanks mate i tried a few starter motors as i thought it will be that, but same problem is thier so it must be the flywheel, how much does it cost to change and source the flywheel for a 325i auto thanks

Did you try to tap the starter a bit first?

When i replaced the clutch on my manual E30, i recall the starter has some grinding marks on the teeth, nothing serious and the flywheel ring gear was just fine.

[mods]

Yes mate tried that could do with someone looking at it for piece of mind, any e30 garages you could recommend in the north west thanks