What is a common symptom of a faulty starter motor?

A common symptom of a faulty starter motor is that the engine does not crank or may produce a clicking sound when the ignition is turned on. This condition typically arises when the starter motor fails to engage properly with the engine or, if the motor is stuck, it may deliver inadequate power to turn the engine over. A clicking sound often indicates that the solenoid is trying to engage but is unable to provide the necessary energy to the starter motor itself, often due to an electrical issue or mechanical failure within the starter unit.

In contrast, excessive noise from the engine could indicate issues with other components, such as the alternator or belts, and may not be specifically related to the starter motor. An engine that starts without issues clearly indicates that the starter is functioning correctly. Meanwhile, a quickly discharging battery might hint at underlying electrical system issues or a failing battery itself, rather than directly pointing to starter motor failure.