My engine was recently replaced by the dealership (within 100 miles ago). Since I got it back I had an issue with the starter not engaging with the flywheel and I've had to rock the car a bit to get it started. I decided I was a coincidence and that my starter solenoid was going bad so I purchased a remanufactured starter. I'm selling the car so I didn't wan't to pay for a brand new starter. I've replaced the starter and when I start the car I get a very short squeek during startup. After the starter stops the squeek goes away.

I've done some research and found photos of starters with what looks like a 1/2" bushing that would help align the starter. The one I took off did not have this bushing and neither did the replacement.

I assume the issue is the bushing - are there any other thoughts? Is there a chance my original starter is good?

Thank you for your help!

 

Your assumption is probably correct --- you need the bushing. I too had a starter noise when engaging, but it went away when I inserted the bushing into the starter before mounting the starter on the block. Installing the bushing in the block first doesn't align the starter, 'cause the bushing goes completely into the block and won't engage the starter.

Maybe try it with your original starter?

 

Unfortunately the starter I took out didn't hav ethe bushing which may have been part of the original problem. Now I'm trying to find a place to buy the busing.

Is there anybody else who has additional first hand experience?

 

This bushing is not part of the starter, it has its own part number. Take a look at https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select and maybe the dimensions will be shown as part of the description.

Maybe the original bushing is hiding inside the block where it normally is inserted part way?