starter question

Ok here's the deal. I got a 2002 cavalier 202 liter. When it get cold out and I go to start the car it starts with no problem but the starter is grinding. I'm not holding the key to long it just seems like something is sticking and making it grind. Does anyone know why this is or has anyone experieced this before..let me know thanks

Ok here's the deal. I got a 2002 cavalier 202 liter. When it get cold out and I go to start the car it starts with no problem but the starter is grinding. I'm not holding the key to long it just seems like something is sticking and making it grind. Does anyone know why this is or has anyone experieced this before..let me know thanks
It might need shims in it, it might not be hitting all they way and you need to take shims out, or it might be hitting to close and drag when started.

Your starter, the gear which contacts the flywheel has a spring which pulls the gear back. that spring has probably become weak and needing to be replaced as a unit.