Hey Scotty,
I replaced the starter on my 2003 Toyota Corolla with a remanufactured one from AutoZone. The first time I installed it, the car made a grinding noise when starting, so I thought I didn’t align it right. I took it back off and reinstalled it again carefully.
Now here’s the weird part: even with the key out and the car OFF, the gauge cluster goes wild. The RPM needle is maxed out, and the coolant temp is stuck on HOT. It’s like the car’s possessed. I’m scared I messed something up bad.
Could this be a grounding issue? A short? A bad starter solenoid? I really don’t want to fry this car — it’s a hand-me-down I’m trying to keep alive, and I’m a broke college kid trying to learn.
Any help is appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Parts-store rebuilt starters are frequently junk. Disconnect the starter and see if the problem persists. Check your work and make sure that insulation hasn't chafed off of 22-year-old wiring causing a short. Checking grounds is a good idea, especially on an old car. (Of course always disconnect the battery before doing electrical work.)
