Jammed starter motor

Q My friend has a 2002 Rover 45 1.6 petrol. She was recovered by the AA the other day because it wouldn’t start. She did hear a noise from the engine that morning, but continued to drive and had done a few short journeys before the engine died. The diagnosis from the AA was: “Ignition switch jamming” and “Starter motor burnt out”.

The starter motor was replaced for a new one from a factors, but when the battery was reconnected the starter just started going again on its own, so the battery was disconnected again. We then replaced the ignition switch with a secondhand one bought on ebay. Everything seemed fine for a few days, then the car made an odd noise again and she found it difficult to switch off the engine. This time she left the car as it is to prevent further damage.

I would appreciate your advice on what to check and look out for. Bartosz Kijanski

A From your description, I would agree that the reason for the original failure was due to a jammed ignition switch. This had been held in position while the engine was running, causing it to spin at far too high a speed and ultimately burning it out. Although you have replaced the electrical portion of the switch, there is the possibility that the problem is with the ignition barrel sticking. This is not unheard of with the Rover ignition barrel – when the ignition switch is removed from the steering lock, you should check that the key and barrel turn freely with no friction. Also ensure that the small lug at the end of the key and barrel assembly is complete and not bent or damaged. Finally, ensure that the new ignition switch has remained firm and not spun in its fixing.