Why Won't My Starter Shut off?

It could be due to a dead battery, but it could also be a bad ignition switch or bad wire between the switch and the battery. ... If nothing happens when you turn the ignition switch on, then the starter motor won't go on to start the engine. Again, a dead battery could be the cause.

What makes a starter stay engaged?

The starter solenoid is sticking, or there is a short to power on the small wire connected to the starter solenoid. The small wire should only be powered when the key is turned to the start position, but if it stays powered up in the run position, the starter will stay engaged.

What would cause a starter solenoid to stick?

1. Problem: The valve is stuck open or closed. Generally, the most common reason a solenoid is “stuck” open or closed is because it loses power. ... Often, power interrupts to the circuitry can cause the valve to stick, and it will remain that way even after you restore power, requiring a reset.