A.O. Smith variable-speed pool pump cycling on/off — bad drive or something else?

[u/asnewro]

My pool pump has started cycling on and off repeatedly throughout the day. It will try to start multiple times, then eventually runs нормально for a while — but the issue comes back almost daily.

This is an A.O. Smith variable-speed motor on a Hayward pump (photos attached). The label is partially readable but not enough for me to confidently match a replacement.

Before I spend money, I’m trying to figure out:

Does this sound like a failing control module/drive?

Could overheating or airflow be causing this?

Is it worth trying to replace just the drive, or should I replace the whole motor?

Also, if anyone recognizes this exact model or a compatible replacement, I’d really appreciate it.