so i was going to get some diapers for my son. i went out the door into the garage... pushed the clutch it turned the key and let the fuel pump prime, then went to start it... and it almost sounds like a dead battery except for this harsh grinding noise coming from inside the engine bay. battery has 12.88v and it wont turn over. can anyone help me?

 

Could be worn teeth on the starter gear/flywheel. Also if the starter gear isn't getting kicked over they have a tendancy to grind. If you have the means it's only a couple bolts to remove the starter, take it in and get it tested. While you have the starter off you can also inspect the flywheel, see if it's damaged at all.

Just a thought, I'm sure others will chime in with some good ideas as well.

 

its not a starter/flywheel grind i know what that sounds like... this is different almost like grinding teeth together... but metal teeth

 

Try to have a friend or neighbor crank the car while you listen in the engine bay (with the hood up obviously ). See if you can localize the noise.

 

if it doesnt turn over that pretty much sounds like the starter wont engage.

 

+1 on the starter (they can get gummed up and then make that metal grinding noise)

 

you guys are awsome... checking that first thing in the morning.