LexLS

My car starts fine but has recently starting making this horrible sound immediately after the engine starts. It sounds kind of like the starter is still going, or like the key has been held in the "start" position for too long. The noise is loud and it only occurs for less than a second.

I don't have any CEL codes and so I checked my repair manual, it said test the starter relay. My relay failed the continuity test on the control terminals (1 & 3). It was supposed to indicate continuity but my meter read about 54 ohms and no continuity beep like normal. It did indicate continuity on the load terminals (2 & 4). It also passed the operation check, clicked when power was applied to 1 & 3, and then I got continuity at 2 & 4.

The manual says to replace the relay if it fails any of the tests but I guess I'm doubting that since it still clicks. So I'm wondering if a relay can be bad even if it still clicks? Has anyone heard of this before? Unfortunately I don't have a spare for testing so I would have to buy one. Any info would be appreciated!

I just hope it's not my starter going....

91LS400LEX

Are you referring to like a "whirring"/"growling" sound right after the engine starts?

I have owned two different LS400s (a 1990 and now a 1991) and both make this sound. Its like the "automatic" starter stays engaged for a moment before it stops. Seems to be longer in cold weather, so I assuming that is what it is.

I was told it was normal and no cause for concern and obviously not, because my 1990 did this for a very long time (I sold it) and my current one has done it since I have owned it.

Scorny

iTrader: (3)

Wheww...thanks for clearing this up.My 94 LS has been doing doing this for the past couple of days in about a week or two.
I thought it was my timing belt due to the cold weather lately.Kindly post if you find a solution,thanks.

LexLS

I wouldn't say mine is a whirring/growling sound, mine is more high pitched and pretty loud. I really don't think my noise is normal since it hadn't made the noise before.

nthach

Bearings in the starter could be bad. All starters have an overrunning clutch that allows the pinion to freewheel once the engine is moving

LexLS

The bearing thing does make more sense than the relay, thanks for the info. Looks like I need to find a new starter...

19psi

the part that retracts the gear could be going bad, leaving the gear out there in contact with the flexplate a little bit too long.

Lexs400

Thanks for posting this. Did you ever find out what was the problem with the whirring/growling sound after the engine starts ? how many miles did your 1990 LS had and how much do you have on your 91 ?

I'm guessing what you're saying is that this noise is not related to starter problems ?

python

iTrader: (4)

ok if u decide on a starter u better get denso, do not use an aftermarket starter!