Re: Sounds like your starter is on the way out ++ (archive)

I agree, it's the shaft that the gear slides on that is "sticking". I've never rebuilt (or even removed) the BMW starter motor but have done it on a ford fiesta. If it is dismantleable you need to clean up and re-grease the shaft that the gear slides up and down on. I'm guessing it is repairable as most auto shops do a trade-in whereby you pay an additional cover charge on the new unit and get that amount refunded when you return the old unit.

I had the same problem.
The starter is turning, but the engine isn't.
There is a clutch in the starter which works like a ratchet. It allows the starter to drive the engine, but prevents the engine from driving the starter (which would damage the starter).
I think you will need a new starter, because you can't replace the clutch alone.
If it's not happening often, you probably have lots of time before the clutch fails completely.
Guys:
Yesterday when I tried to start the 325i after a period of 3 days there was a whining sound and apparently the engine did not crank. The sound was definitely different than a normal starting sound. I tried again and it started normally like nothing had happened.
Any ideas? Should I check something?
Thanks for any inputs.

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