I've had this happen three times over the past 6 weeks. When I turn the key to start, it makes that horrible grinding noise you get when you turn the key to start when the engine is already running.

It starts fine on the second try.


Starter going bad? Can it "stick".

 

Mine has the same problem as well but I have no idea what might cause this?

 

More than likely your flexplate (flywheel on manual tranny i believe) is worn down and needs replacing

 

I went through this last year.

Short story-It was the starter.

Long story-Decided to change the starter on a Sunday. I bought the most expensive new (not remanufactured) starter the autoparts store offered. A week later the grinding returned so I was sure the flexplate was bad. Within the next few days, the solenoid on the new starter would not disengage. Took the new "defective" starter out and replaced it with a remanufactured Motorcraft unit from the Ford dealer. Have not had any problems with grinding since then.

 

Good to hear. I was looking at a 7 buck TCY replacement, as I had great luck with their alternator, but perhaps I'll look to go with a MC.

Can someone enlighten me as to what a flexplate is, and why wear would cause this issue?

 

The grinding noise is the bendix on the starter sticking. You can either have the starter rebuilt or purchase a new starter.

 

I had this same problem so i replaced the starter, still no luck.

 

The gear on the starter engage into the flexplate. The flexplate is basically just a big gear that rotates the crankshaft to start the engine. Over time, the teeth on the flex plate or starter can wear or break and cause skipping/grinding when the starter engages. Hopefully the issue is your starter since it is significantly cheaper to replace.