My 01 s-type is making this horrible screeching sound when I try and start it. It's never done this before despite all the other problems i've had to deal with it. It's very frustrating because I can't find any info online as to what the problem could be. Any help would be greatly appreciated..
Thank You

 

A screeching sound could be any one of a hundred things. Have you opened the hood to see where it's coming from?

 

Try audio recordings online of car screeching noises. You probably have to try other makes as no-one uploads every sound for every car.

 

@ Mikey, tried to listen where it was coming from but was difficult. I didn't even get car started after I heard that awful screeching..

@Jagv8, Great idea!!! I will do that right now and get right back to you..

 

Thanks, great idea

 

i would say timing chain tensioners ..just dont try to start the car..take it to some professional help...

 

Starter motor is more likely than engine, but get it checked by an expert

 

I had a starter make that horrible screeching sound before.

When you turn the key to start, it energizes an electromagnet that pulls a lever that throws the gear out from the starter to engage with the teeth on the fly wheel. If the gear doesn't engage fully or properly then the small gear on the starter spins freely up against the teeth on the flywheel. This causes the screeching sound.

Have your battery load tested to make sure it is strong enough to engage the starter.

Check all of the connections on the starter (and battery)to make sure there is no corrosion. This could cause a large enough voltage drop to affect the starter engagement.

Check the teeth on the starter gear and make sure they are not worn off at the end. This involves puling the starter out of the car.

If you start it too many times and get the screech you will damage the gear so much that it will no longer work even if everything else is working.

Good luck.