B16-016
March 8, 2016
03300 Version 1

 

Starter Grinds or Spins at Startup

 

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Year	Model	Trim	VIN range
2014–16	RLX	ALL	ALL

 

SYMPTOM

The starter grinds or spins at startup.

 

POSSIBLE CAUSES

The clearance between the starter motor gear and the torque converter ring gear is not optimal.

 

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Replace the starter and rotate the torque converter clockwise one bolt hole.

 

PARTS INFORMATION

Part Name	Part Number	Quantity
Starter (includes gasket)	31200-5G0-A02	1

 

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

The normal warranty applies.

Operation Number	Description	Flat Rate Time	Defect Code	Symptom Code	Template ID	Failed Part Number
2181BD	Replace the starter and rotate the torque converter one bolt hole.	0.9 hr	07406	04201	16-016N	31200-5G0-A02

 

Skill Level: Repair Technician

 

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Make sure the ignition is turned to OFF.
2. Disconnect and isolate the negative cable with the battery sensor from the battery. NOTE:
   • Always disconnect the negative side first.
   • To protect the battery sensor connector from damage, do not hold it when removing the negative terminal.
   • Do not disconnect the battery sensor from the negative terminal.
3. Disconnect the positive terminal from the battery.
4. Remove the battery setting plate and the battery.

 

5. Remove the lower radiator hose from the lower radiator hose bracket.
6. Remove the dipstick.
7. Disconnect the positive starter cable and the S terminal connector.
8. Remove the starter.

 

9. Remove the torque converter cover.

 

10. Rotate the crankshaft and remove all eight bolts.

NOTE: Do not remove the final bolt until ready to rotate the torque converter.

 

11. Rotate the torque converter clockwise one bolt hole. Then, install the bolts and torque them to 12 N·m (9 lb-ft). NOTE: Moving the torque converter more than one bolt hole will index the flexplate and torque converter incorrectly. The torque converter must be rotated as shown.

 

12. Mark the torque converter and the flex plate as shown. Then, write the bulletin number (16-016) on the flex plate with a permanent marker or paint marker.

NOTE: If there is a previous alignment mark and a reference to this bulletin, no further rotation can be done. A new torque converter will have to be installed.

 

13. Install the torque converter cover and torque the bolts to 12 N·m (9 lb-ft).

 

14. Install the new starter and gasket. Then, torque the bolts to 45 N·m (33 lb-ft).
15. Do the battery installation procedure.
16. Start the engine to make sure it works properly.

 

END