Ignition Noise--Opinions?

[carsncars]

Hey Everyone,

I need advice on a noise my '98 Civic is making on start up. It sounds a bit like what happens when you crank the starter too long (e.g., after the engine is running) but I'm certain that's not what's happening. Only happens on a cold start.

http://www.sfu.ca/~mjp16/misc/Harry.mp3

That's the sound. I found some Acura forums discussing what sounds like a similar problem, and they indicate that the starter motor/solenoid needs to be replaced. I'm fairly sure this is the same problem, but opinions would be much appreciated.

Also, do you think it's necessary to have this looked at now? It's never left me stranded (in fact the car's been dead reliable), but if there's a chance it might, I'll get it looked at and fixed.

Thanks.

[PJungnitsch]

Can't hear it, but if it's the same grinding type sound I think it is it is the starter overrun clutch letting go. Cold starts are harder for the starter to turn the motor and so more likely to make that piece slip. It's a standard replacement part when starters are rebuilt.

In my experience they can last a while before letting go completely, but on my own vehicles I change the starter out when it happens. Will only get worse with time, and can strand you.