starter motor noise

[Coaster]

hello, have a 54 plate micra, which occasionally makes a noise just after engine starts and i release the ignition key. it sounds like a washer motor drone and lasts about a second.

is there any way i can test to see if it's the motor, or an ignition barrel problem?

 

[Burnerman]

This is usually a sign build up of clutch dust on the starter gear drive, and also a bit of dryness in the bush that holds the end of the starter motor shaft.
The noise manifests itself as the starter is spinning down after the engine has started.
If you want to pop the starter out, wash the dust away with brake cleaner, and give the end bush a squirt with Duck Oil spray.
John

 

[Coaster]

aaa.. thanks. the starter's a bugger to get off to me, will it get worse if i left it?

 

[Burnerman]

It won't get any quieter, thats for sure......there's no damage taking place though.
John