Starting an automatic car without a starter motor is very different from a manual car because of the transmission design. In an automatic, the starter engages the flywheel via a torque converter, and you cannot push-start it like a manual car.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Why Push-Starting Doesn’t Work in Automatic Cars
- Manual transmissions allow you to turn the engine by moving the car, which spins the crankshaft and generates spark.
- Automatic transmissions use a torque converter, which cannot mechanically transmit enough rotational force to the engine at low speed.
- Therefore, pushing or towing the car will not turn the engine fast enough to start it.
2. Alternative Ways to Start an Automatic Car Without a Starter
Since push-starting won’t work, your options are limited to bypassing the starter electrically:
2.1 Using a Remote Starter Relay Bypass
- Some vehicles can start by bridging the starter solenoid terminals.
- Steps (general):
- Locate the starter solenoid on the starter motor.
- Identify the large terminals: battery (+) and starter input.
- Carefully jump the terminals with a heavy-gauge wire or screwdriver (VERY dangerous).
- ⚠️ Risks: Sparks, damage to the electrical system, or injury.
- Only recommended if you know electrical systems well.
2.2 Using an Electric Motor or External Starter
- If the starter is dead, some mechanics use a portable electric starter or jumper motor to turn the flywheel.
- Connect to flywheel teeth with proper insulation to avoid damage.
2.3 Repair or Replace the Starter
- Realistically, the safest and most reliable method is to replace the starter motor.
- Trying to bypass or jury-rig can damage:
- Flywheel
- Torque converter
- Wiring and ECU
3. Safety Notes
- Never try to push or tow an automatic car to start it — the torque converter prevents the engine from turning.
- Bypassing the starter involves high current (~200–400 amps) — serious risk of shock, fire, or battery explosion.
- If the car is in gear, it could suddenly lurch if it starts unexpectedly.
4. Summary
| Method | Feasibility | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Push-start / tow | ❌ Won’t work (torque converter) | — |
| Jumper the starter solenoid | ⚠️ Works if done carefully | Sparks, fire, damage |
| Portable starter motor | ✔ Works for emergencies | Needs skill, special tool |
| Replace starter | ✔ Recommended | Safe and permanent |
💡 Key Point:
Automatic cars require a functioning starter motor to start. There is no safe or reliable way to push-start them like a manual car. The only practical solution is starter repair or replacement.
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