In my experience, provided you hit the main body of the starter motor (not the metal caps on the end) you cannot possibly damage them, no matter how hard you try!

It appears as though the starter motor is sticking (which is why it might need a whack), but also could just be a loose connection.Wayne2014 wrote:Why am i whacking the motor again?
Nope, that's when it was assumed to be the main relay. Under the bonnet is most likely.Wayne2014 wrote:Do i need to remove steering column cover 1st?
Don't worry though, you won't have done any damage. It just hasn't proved anything yetwurlycorner wrote:Next time it doesn't start Wayne, give the starter motor a really good whack (or 2) with a big heavy spanner. Could be short/sticking brushes or a sticking solenoid.