A starter motor, is a high toque electric motor, which starts your car.  It does this by turning the gear on the engine fly wheel.  Before the invention of starter motors, cars were started with a hand crank. 

A video explaining the workings of a starter motor and some repair tips.

A working starter motor is essential in modern cars.   With out one, you won’t be able to start your car.  In older cars, you can jump start them but a lot of modern vehicles aren’t capable of being started that way.  If your looking for a replacement starter motor you could consider using used parts.  They are considerably lower in cost and by recycling a part you are doing a service to the environment.  Finding used parts is easy too, it’s as easy as filing in a form.

 

Note:  This article is meant as guidance only, consult your manufacturers guide or a professional before performing any maintenance.