Problems with OEM starter failing
 

I have an earlier 2004 model and as I write this, Mazda is installing the 4th starter in the car. I had the early/weaker starter origianally. This was replaced when the dealer stalled and flooded the car during an oil change back in late 2006. The upgraded, second started lastedd about 1.5 years before it started failing in Feb 09 (just over 2 years of service). I convinced Mazda to pay for 1/2 of the replacement starter (#3) in Feb 09. Now in Dec 09 - I need a new starter. I must give props to Mazda customer service - they are fully covering this replacement.

My question to the group is: Have there been any reported problems with the upgraded starter which has been in use for the past 4 years? I find it hard to believe my car is the only one with multiple starter failures. My theory is that the upgraded starter is still too weak and therefore does not have the durability to last mutiple years.

FYI, the failure symptoms are no engine turnover when the key is turned. Only the started solenoid click. This is not a battery/alternator problem. On a later attempt to start the car, it turns over without problem. This is an intermittant failure.

Hi. I have had the same problem since I bought the car back in April/2004 but never had to change the starter. Sometimes it start-up fine other sounds as a cheap car. Have you gathered any info about aftermarket replacement starter?

I'm not sure if you have the same problem. When the starter is not working the only sound to be heard is the click of the starter solenoid. I do not have any info about aftermarket starters since Mazda has been covering the part under warranty. Starter#4 was covered under the parts warranty of the starter#3 since it had been less than 1 year.

My hope is starter#4 lasts a long time (I have to assume there are good starters out there since I haven't heard from anyone else about this problem and the dealer claims it's the first time they've heard of any problem with the upgraded starter). If starter#4 is going to die - I hope it's by the end of 2010 so I can go for another warranty replacement. When I do finally have to pay out of pocket for a new starter, it will be aftermarket or rebuilt by a local/trusted shop.

Have you considered the clutch switch as the problem? If you have a manual transmission, when you depress the clutch to start the car it activates a switch that allows the starter to engage. If the clutch switch is failing, it may cause the intermittent problem that you are having.

I thought that was it the first time around, but was wrong. In all cases the starter has tested as bad (I'm told).

This is the first I've heard on an issue like this. . . The upgraded starters I've used/installed are all working out fine.

Good news that Mazda is taking care of you. Honestly, I wouldn't rule out something in the battery or charging system if they're somehow frying your starters. Most of the alternator + battery tests look for under charging or under voltage only. Its possible that they're sending too much current to your starter and ruining it.

SilverStreak makes a good point about the clutch interlock switch.
You can simply disconnect it and jump the wires so the car thinks the pedal is down.
CAUTON: If you do this, don't start the car with it in gear and the clutch pedal not down.

The upgraded starters are not widely known to go bad... especially the way your starters have "failed".
You can always remove the starter and then start the car (obviously with the starter still wired).
This way you can visually see the solenoid move the drive gear forward and also see if the gear spins.