my starter has a problem

Depending on *production date* - starter motor is likely 14 ➕ years old - it is worn out.. Striking the starter motor with hammer to see if it responds is actually a valid ‘TEST’ - however it is certainly not a way to bypass a failing starter assembly - it is indeed quite likely it only worked the one time.. Further explanation is too lengthy to post here + it’s really not pertinent or beneficial to do so. REPLACE the starter! Good luck!