Starter motor and alternator remanufacturer Autoelectro has issued two new technical bulletins focusing on Toyota and Mini models.

The first concerns the ignition switch and wiring harness on the Toyota Aygo 1.4 D-4D (2005-2012). This can cause starting issues such as the vehicle cranking but failing to start, the ignition switch sticking in the start position, or the starter motor running but not disengaging. Autoelectro says if these problems arise, the technician should replace the ignition switch and check the wiring harness.

There are also other symptoms, associated with the ignition switch and wiring harness, which could indicate a starter motor failure. These include:

•     Blue colour on armature shaft
•     Rattling when the starter motor is shaken
•     Burning smell emanating from the starter motor
•     Damaged teeth found on the starter motor
•     Leaking varnish from the starter motor
•     Melted, burnt, discoloured or broken wire connected from the solenoid to the starter motor body

Should these symptoms show, the starter motor should be replaced. Autoelectro part number for replacement is AEU1260 .

With regard to the Mini the company has been made aware of an alternator fitting error that can cause a coolant leak. This concerns alternators fitted to the Mini R50/R52/R53 1.4 and 1.6 petrol (2001-2009) and all vehicles with W10 engine codes from 2003-onwards. The Autoelecro team have found that incorrect fitting of the part (AEC1868) was in some cases causing the vehicle’s engine coolant to leak onto the drive bracket, causing the drive belt to slip. This is due to the coolant pipe, which runs parallel above the alternator and across the mounting brackets, not being detached or moved into a safe position when removing the original alternator. The pipe rubbed against the alternator mounting bolts, causing a coolant leak, which dripped onto the alternator and drive belt and resulting in the drive belt slipping.

It is therefore vital that the technician ensures that the pipe is clear from the mounting bolts when replacing the alternator; if the pipe is damaged, it must be replaced.