jewel

On Monday morning, after not driving my car over the weekend, I started my car and noticed a much louder than normal start, but no issues starting. Once started, everything runs perfectly. Over the next few days, things seem to have gotten progressively worse, in that the starting just sounds horrible, but I haven't had time to look into it. Today, I started my car, drove to my moms to drop off my daughter, and when I came out 5 minutes later, the car would not start. When I press the button, i hear a "whirring" sound for about 3 seconds, but no clicks. I tried multiple times but nothing happened. It sounds like something is spinning up, but no engine start. My theory is that the starter is not getting up to speed, and can't turn over the engine. I don't think its the relay since something actually happens when I press the button, and don't think its the battery since it is relatively new.

Battery was replaced 1.5 years ago, so I don't think thats an issue
I did change my oil about 3 weeks ago, checked oil levels Mondary morning, and it was low. Added more oil
It has been pretty cold in SD lately, (30s and 40s )

Any thoughts?

Mrfix

It sounds like your starter is done. Try having someone tap the starter with a broom handle or something while you try to start it. If you can get the car to start then it's your starter for sure. But my guess is it's the starter. YOu can check the connections on the starter also to see if they are tight and free of corrosion.

Viktimize

Not the starter itself is bad, but sounds like the starter solenoid itself is no good. So it's not pulling in and engaging the starter. Chances are it's easier to just replace the entire starter though anyway.

Age of a battery is no indication of it's functionality. A proper load test would need to be done to verify that. However a simple voltage check is generally a good indication. In this case, if the battery is spinning the starter no problem, it's unlikely it is a battery issue.

Zmon

iTrader: (2)

The starter looks like a bit of work on these cars. I believe the driver side manifold and part of the steering rack needs to removed to get to the starter. It's a bit of work, but something you can DIY if you want to give it a shot. You can use one of the header install guides as a guide to remove the starter.

600rr05

iTrader: (9)

Since your in San Diego try reaching out to Elite Service Center (858) 536-4284 and explain issue over the phone might be able to help if not maybe have it towed to them. They do great work and are much better pricing than the dealer.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

As was stated, still have that "newer" battery checked (and alternator) AND think about replacing the key fob battery to cross that off the list.Once the battery is deemed good, start checking fuses relating to the charging/starting systems.

jewel

So update,
my brother helped me disassemble everything, took the starter to autozone. Electrically its fine, but mechanically its not. The thing that pokes in and out isnt doing its job, and it sounds like its grinding. Price was $150 for a remanufactured denso OEM part, or $300 for a new one. Here's hoping we can get it all back together tomorrow

Had to take out the manifold, spent about 2 hours disassembling

- So it's not pulling in and engaging the starter. Chances are it's easier to just replace the entire starter though anyway. (this guy had it spot on)

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

I can count on one hand the # of starters I've read about going out on a 2IS on CL here in 5+yrs. Seems like you've got it handled, though that uninstall/install is the WORST!

Viktimize

You're welcome. Glad to hear you got it sorted. MrFix was technically right too by saying it was the starter.