Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing
to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and
make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.
Probably doesn't need to be replaced right away unless it starts to leave you stranded. The starter is probably starting to look the same way. When I lived in Hawaii I had a white 91+ that did something similar. Every now and then if the flywheel was positioned just right the starter would no longer make good contact and it would just spin. I didn't have any money, tools, or means of having it replaced so I had to always park in a way that if it wouldn't start I could still push it to pop the clutch. Car was a turd but I loved it. Only paid $500 for it.
That screeching sound during startup likely indicates the starter is damaging the flywheel. @Irish Pride mentioned that immediate replacement might not be necessary unless the issue worsens. However, it's advisable to inspect both the starter and flywheel soon to prevent potential breakdowns. Regular maintenance can help avoid unexpected problems.
I have a lifetime warranty on the starter (duralast) so I'm trading it in. Just ****** off I let it damage the flywheel. I just hope it isn't too far gone.