Ok let start by saying I have a 2007 H3 w/3.7 175k. My problem is my starter when i try to start Bendix just touches flex plate and retracts spinning the starter is new battery is new with cable ends new (stinger). I thought it could be cables so i unhooked starter in left in place in vehicle and bypassed all cables with jumper wires still couldn't get Bendix to kick out. Ater that i pulled starter and tried the bench test with battery and jumper cables and it works like it should i have taken it to 3 auto part places to test all say good. Also checked flex plate for any imperfections its good as well. Has anybody had this issue?

 

 

Is yours the original 16 Year OLD starter? Time for a new one.

Testing without load only means the electrical and gears function. It does not rule out an OLD worn out starter’s lack of muscle.