Is this a starter motor fault???

Hi folks,
I have a bit of a problem with my 300tdi starting which has 120,000 on the clock... Sometimes when i turn the key, it sounds like the starter motor doesnt engage and it doesnt turn the engine over (sounds like the starter motor is just spinning freely and not cranking) . But if i turn the key back and try again it starts absolutly fine. The problem is now getting worse and is very vare it "engages as such" and cranks the engine, and dont wont to become stuck not being able to start it. Have you lot got any ideas please??

Well, normally the starter motor shoots the little drive cog forwards to engage with the flywheel and then shoots back again once you release the key from the start position. It sounds like your starter is spinning, but not shooting forwards (sorry, lack of technical terms here) - but I think the best thing you can do is to take it off and have a look. You can usually rebuild starter motors but it may need replacing.

One tip though, if you do get 'stuck' somewhere and it won't turn the engine over, get a lump of wood or metal or something substantial and give the starter a few good thumps from above. This can jar it into life and help it to engage properly, but it's only a temporary get yourself out of trouble measure.