How can I tell if I need a new starter?

Hmm the loud noise you mention it is hard to give an exact diagnosis on the point of sound? If the engine is not starting it sounds like that either the teeth on the gear of the starting motor are worn and not connecting to the flywheel ring gear or that the ring gear itself is damaged? The only way this can be identified is to remove the starter. Hope this was of some help.

Carlito Corway
November 2006