[dashing1eric]

Made several "attempts" to start the car, before realizing that the car was already running (didn't realize how noisy the parking garage was and did not hear the engine at first). Was damage done to the starter or the engine...or other? Should I expect any adverse effects in the future? Thanks in advance.

 

[daustin]

Well, if anything, it may have damaged the starter, but I think they have a failsafe that prevents it from being turned while the car is running. I'm not positive on that, but unless it doesn't start anymore, you should be doing ok.

 

[icspots]

worst-case scenario is you ground the edges off of the starter and fly wheel a little bit. Even so as long as it starts you shouldn't have any problems. The funny thing is I read this post and thought immediately of Good Morning Vietnam. Forest Whitacker's character keeps trying to start jeeps that are already running. At one point Robin Williams says, "It's a simple rule, if the engine's running the car's already on".

 

[Tim25]

Shouldn't be a problem. To avoid doing this in the future, get an aftermarket exhaust! :lol:

Unless you sat there holding the key in the start position and heard the gears grinding for a couple minutes I can't imagine you doing any critical damage - kind of like grinding a gear occasionally. Not a huge deal, just don't do it too often.

I know I did it once in my previous 3, but I can't remember if it ground the ring gear or if there was a fail safe switch that disabled the starter.

TIM