Phantom01Pathfinder

Ok, so this is a stupid question, but here i go. How bad is it to crank your car while its already running? I happened to crank my '01 Pathfinder today while it was already running and i heard a buzzing type noise. Is there some kind of safety mechanism that prevents the starter from trying to engage the flywheel or??? I am not too concerned about this since its the first time ive ever done it, i just wondered what exactly happens...

All input would be great

Thanks,
Phantom

metro273

If I'm correct, the starter has a built-in clutch mechanism to prevent damage to the flywheel and/or the starter assembly.
Try not to turn the ignition while the engine is running next time...

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