Rotating electrics specialist Autoelectro has highlighted a problem on certain Fiat models which is causing early failure of the starter motor.

The Autoelectro technical team says that the fault is triggered by a corroded earth point which results in poor starting and eventual failure. The starter motor for the Grande Punto 1.4 (2006-onwards), because of the poor electrical connection, has been known to excessively crank. As a result, the component begins to burn out and fail.

To avoid such problems, technicians are advised to remove the earth point, clean and lubricate it, before installing the replacement starter motor. However, if the fault has already occurred, the technician should check the condition of the earth point, which can usually be found under the windscreen washer reservoir, before fitting the replacement starter motor.

Symptoms that indicate the potential failure include:
- Blue colour on armature shaft near pinion
- Rattling inside motor when starter motor is shaken
- Burnt smell from inside the starter motor
- Damaged teeth on starter motor
- Burnt/discoloured/melted/broken wire from solenoid to starter body

Failure to rectify the fault will result in early failure of the replacement starter motor and the warranty will be void.