(94 civic ex AUTO)I have read other forums about this but on later model cars and they say it's normal.

Well I heard this sound ONCE awhile ago at least 6 months ago and hasn't came back sense. Same symptoms as everyone else. It only happens once a day and that's when it's been sitting for 7+ hours overnight. It happens as I turn the car over, Nothing bad seems to happen other than the loud grinding noise(yes its very noticable) But the car starts as it normally does. Just started happening again yesterday morning, Then again this morning.

It can't be from lack of oil as i had a huge oil leak and would go awhile with 1/4 filled oil pan. No sounds. I did just recently fix that oil leak(Vtec solenoid gaskets)

I'm guessing it's something to do with my starter?

 

It's your starter sticking. It's starting to die on you. Mine is doing the same thing. Makes a terrible grinding sound but my car still starts. Only does it when I let it sit overnight or if I crank it for too long.

It will die some time in the near future probably. Use it till it dies!

 

sounds like the pinion gear in the starter motor isnt fully engaging with the ring gear on the flex plate i would try bench testing the starter to see if the shaft is fully extending. if the starter is good then check the flexplate to see if the teeth are damaged you may have worn teeth that arent allowing the starter gear to fully engage.

 

I have a 2013 CRV and it was fine for the first years and then early this year it started. I'm calling the dealership tomorrow to see if I'm under powertrane warranty. Glad to know to know I'm not alone in this. Thanks everyone!