Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Starting System: Operation
When ignition key is put into ignition switch, transponder sends a code to Central Electronics With Anti-Theft Alarm (TWICE) module which grounds starter relay actuating coil. As ignition is turned to start position, starter relay operates and circuit to solenoid terminal No. 50 closes. Solenoid engages pinion with ring gear on engine's flywheel and closes a switch so starter motor commutator is supplied with power via slip brushes from terminal No. 30.
After engine start and engine speed exceeds starter motor RPM, pinion is disengaged from its shaft via a freewheel, preventing starter motor from over revving. Releasing ignition key breaks starting circuit and operating circuit to solenoid, causing spring to return pinion to its rest position.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.