I have a 2016 Honda Fit LX that makes a grinding noise for 1/2 a second when the car is first started up. It sounds like the same noise if one tries to engage the starter when the engine is already running. Does this usually mean the starter motor needs to be replaced or can something else be the problem or another fix?

 

Probably the starter. On the pushbutton start models, both the starter and the start switch are prone to premature failure, but on the LX key start models, no such start switch to go bad.

 

If this problem only happens intermittently could it be something else too? I had someone else suggest it could be bad teeth on the flywheel. In either case do you think this is a priority to fix or can it be left alone like this for a while?

 

Does this happen ALL the time when you go to start it, or does it only happen when you're starting a cold engine?

 

Most starters don't fail all at once. Usually starts as a grinding noise or difficulty starting intermittently, then it becomes progressively more difficult to start until it can't be started at all. Bad teeth on a flywheel? I doubt it.

 

I believe it only happens on a cold engine but even that is not all the time so intermittently on a cold start.

 

Probably VTC Actuator rattle, common problem on 2015/6 Fits. Many discussions on this Forum if you do a search. Also a common problem on some other Honda models.

Honda TSB 16-088:

VTC Actuator problem

 

Exactly what I was thinking

 

^^^ This ^^^

 

I have this issue too but I'm putting off the VTC Actuator replacement. Think I missed the extended warranty thing from Honda. Anyway a little trick to avoid the sound I found on another forum: Turn the key in the ignition until the dash lights come on. Pause there for a few seconds before cranking the engine and you won't get that rattle. Apparently the VTC issue will either do nothing or explode your engine depending on who you talk to.

 

I don't think I can recall anyone suffering any engine damage from it, but it will apparently get louder over time.

 

I always appreciate these creative remedies, but that "fix" does nothing...only waists your time.
The problem is mechanical and is in the VTC actuator.
No amount of waiting will alleviate this noise from happening and potentially stretching your timing chain.

 

My starter was making that grinding noise you speak of.
Here's the anomoly;
I recently had my clutch replaced. The starter grinding noise is gone. In fact my Fit starts very quiet and smooth. Before I had my clutch replaced my Fit would on occasion start with that grinding noise. Is your clutch slipping? You may want to find out.