Starter Motor Guide for 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 & 2021-2022 Jeep Compass 2.4L

Part and Vehicle Compatibility

This guide covers the starter motor for the 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir engine found in the following vehicles:

• 2015-2017 Chrysler 200
• 2021-2022 Jeep Compass

Key OEM Part Numbers

The primary OEM part number for this starter has been updated several times. The latest part number supersedes all previous versions. When searching for a new or used part, any of these numbers will fit, but the latest version is generally preferred.

• 56029783AF (Latest)
• Supersedes: 56029783AE, 56029783AD, 56029783AC, 56029783AB, 56029783AA

Symptoms of a Failing Starter Motor

A bad starter can mimic other issues, like a dead battery. Pay close attention to these specific signs to correctly diagnose the problem.

1. A Loud Single Click or Rapid Clicking

When you try to start the engine, you hear a distinct 'CLICK' but the engine doesn't turn over. This is the sound of the starter's solenoid engaging, but the motor itself failing to spin. This can be due to a weak battery, but if a jump start doesn't help, the starter is the likely culprit. A series of rapid clicks often points to a battery that doesn't have enough power to turn the starter motor.

2. Grinding or Whirring Noises

A harsh grinding sound during startup suggests the starter's pinion gear is not meshing correctly with the engine's flywheel, or the gear is damaged. 🎬 Listen to examples of bad starter sounds here. A high-pitched whirring or spinning noise without the engine cranking means the starter motor is spinning, but the pinion gear is not engaging the flywheel at all.

3. Engine Won't Crank, But Lights Work

If you turn the key and the dashboard lights and radio turn on, but the engine does nothing (no sound or just a single click), it's a strong sign that power is not the issue and the starter has failed.

4. Intermittent Starting Problems

The car starts fine one day but refuses to crank the next. This can be caused by a 'dead spot' on the starter motor's internal electrical contacts. Sometimes, heat from the engine can cause a failing starter to temporarily stop working, only to function again once it cools down.

5. Smoke or Burning Smell

Repeatedly trying to start a vehicle with a jammed or failing starter can cause the motor to overheat. This can lead to smoke coming from under the hood and a distinct electrical burning smell. If you see smoke, stop trying to start the vehicle immediately to prevent further damage or a fire.

Don't Mistake This for a Bad Starter

Before replacing your starter, rule out these common issues:

• Weak or Dead Battery: Always test the battery first. A battery can have enough power for lights but not enough to turn the engine over. Try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts right up, your battery is the problem.
• Corroded or Loose Connections: Check the battery terminals and the main cables leading to the starter. Clean any corrosion and ensure all connections are tight. A poor connection can prevent the high current needed by the starter from getting through.
• Low Engine Oil (2.4L Tigershark Engine): This engine is known for consuming oil between changes. If the oil level gets critically low, a sensor can shut the engine down or prevent it from starting to protect internal components. This can be mistaken for a starter or battery problem. Always check your oil level if you experience a no-start condition.

Buying a Used Starter Motor

A used OEM starter can be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive new parts or lower-quality aftermarket options. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify the Part Number: Make sure the part number on the starter matches one of the OEM numbers listed above (e.g., 56029783AF).
• Inspect the Pinion Gear: Look at the small gear that pops out. The teeth should be clean, sharp, and free of chips, excessive wear, or damage. Damaged teeth indicate it may have had issues engaging the flywheel.
• Check Electrical Terminals: The threaded posts where the battery and signal wires connect should be clean, straight, and free of corrosion or stripped threads.
• Examine the Housing: Look for any cracks, heavy corrosion, or signs of oil saturation. An oil-soaked starter suggests it came from an engine with a severe leak, which can damage the starter's internal components over time.
• Consider Mileage: While not always possible to know, a starter from a lower-mileage vehicle is always preferable. Starters are wear items, and failure rates increase significantly after 75,000 miles.

Replacement Overview and Difficulty

Replacing this starter is a tale of two vehicles. The difficulty varies significantly between the Chrysler 200 and the Jeep Compass.

2015-2017 Chrysler 200 (Moderate Difficulty)

On the Chrysler 200, the starter can often be replaced from underneath the vehicle without removing major components from the top. It is a tight space, requiring patience and a good set of wrenches and swivels.

• Access: From below the vehicle.
• Key Steps: The main challenge is accessing the top mounting bolt (often a 16mm). A long wrench or a socket with multiple extensions and a swivel joint is typically required. The lower bolt (often 14mm) is easier to reach. The starter can then be maneuvered out from the bottom.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step Chrysler 200 starter replacement video.
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 3 hours.

2021-2022 Jeep Compass (High Difficulty)

The Jeep Compass presents a much greater challenge. The starter is buried deep in the engine bay, and access from below is blocked by the CV axle and subframe. The job must be done from the top, requiring the removal of several components.

• Access: From the top of the engine bay.
• Key Steps: This procedure typically requires removing the battery, battery tray, air intake box, and the entire intake manifold to gain access. The transmission mounts may also need to be loosened or removed. This is a significantly more involved job than on the Chrysler 200.

• Warning: A small plastic coolant overflow hose near the back of the engine is very easy to break during this repair. Be extremely careful when working in this area.

  🎬 See how to replace the starter on a 2.4L Jeep.
• Estimated Time: 3 - 5 hours.

Torque Specifications

Official factory torque specifications for the starter mounting bolts are not consistently published in standard repair guides. When reinstalling, ensure the bolts are tightened securely. A common practice for bolts of this size (M10-M12) is to tighten them to be snug and secure, generally in the 30-40 ft-lbs range. However, it is always best to consult a vehicle-specific factory service manual for the exact specification.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace this starter varies based on the part source and whether you perform the labor yourself. The higher labor time for the Jeep Compass significantly increases the shop replacement cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)