How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Starter?

Expect to pay about $300–$900 in the U.S. to replace a conventional car starter, with parts typically $150–$600 and labor $120–$400; prices can climb to $1,200 or more for certain luxury models or designs with difficult access. Costs vary by vehicle, parts choice (OEM vs. aftermarket), and shop labor rates, which commonly range from $90–$215 per hour.

What Goes Into the Price

Several factors drive the out-the-door price of a starter replacement. Understanding these helps explain why quotes vary widely even for similar-looking jobs.

• Parts: Aftermarket or remanufactured starters often run $100–$350; new OEM units are commonly $250–$700. Most modern starters include the solenoid as one unit; start-stop-rated starters are beefier and pricier.
• Labor time: Access dictates labor. Simple layouts may take 0.8–1.5 hours; tight engine bays, AWD packaging, or intake/exhaust obstructions can push labor to 2–3.5 hours. Shop rates typically range $90–$215/hour in the U.S.
• Vehicle design: Trucks with skid plates, some Subarus and V6/V8 applications, and European models often require extra disassembly. Start-stop systems use heavy-duty starters; many hybrids don’t use a conventional starter at all.
• Where you go: Independent shops are usually less than dealerships; mobile mechanics can be competitive with lower overhead. Dealer parts often carry longer warranties.
• Region: High cost-of-living metro areas tend to have higher labor rates and shop fees.
• Diagnostics, fees, and taxes: Electrical system testing may add $50–$150. Shop supplies and taxes are typically $10–$50, depending on the bill.

Taken together, a modest parts price can still lead to a higher total if the job is labor-intensive or performed at a high-rate facility, and vice versa.

Typical Price Ranges by Vehicle Category

These ballpark totals reflect common U.S. pricing for parts and labor, assuming no additional repairs are needed.

• Economy/compact sedans (e.g., Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla): $300–$650
• Mid-size sedans and crossovers (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima): $350–$700
• Full-size trucks/SUVs (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Toyota 4Runner): $400–$850, potentially higher if skid plates or 4WD components add labor
• European luxury/performance (e.g., BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class): $600–$1,200 due to parts cost and access complexity
• Subaru flat engines/other tight-access layouts: $500–$900; some require intake or exhaust component removal
• Start-stop systems (conventional vehicles with auto stop/start): $450–$900 due to heavy-duty starter specs
• Hybrids: Many Toyota/Lexus hybrids and others don’t use a traditional starter; if an engine starter-generator or integrated unit fails, repairs can be $800–$2,000+ depending on the design

Your VIN and exact engine/drivetrain dictate real pricing; a quick parts lookup plus a labor-time estimate from a shop will refine these ranges.

Example Line-Item Breakdowns

Here are hypothetical but realistic scenarios showing how parts, labor, and fees contribute to the final bill.

• Independent shop, mid-size sedan: Remanufactured starter $220; labor 1.5 hr @ $140/hr = $210; shop fees/tax $35. Estimated total: $465.
• Dealer, compact car: New OEM starter $420; labor 1.2 hr @ $185/hr = $222; diagnostic $140; fees/tax $30. Estimated total: $812.
• European luxury sedan: OEM starter $650; labor 3.0 hr @ $205/hr = $615; fees/tax $60. Estimated total: $1,325.

Quotes can change if seized fasteners, damaged cables, or corroded terminals add time or parts. Ask for approval before extra work proceeds.

Avoiding Misdiagnosis (and Unnecessary Costs)

Starter-like symptoms can come from other parts of the starting and charging system. A quick verification can prevent needless replacement.

• Differentiate symptoms: A single click with full interior power often points to a starter or solenoid; multiple rapid clicks or dim dash lights often indicate a weak battery or poor connection; no crank and no lights could be a dead battery or main fuse.
• Request test results: Battery state of health/CCA, charging voltage (typically ~13.5–14.8 V running), starter current draw, and a voltage-drop test on cables/grounds.
• Check simple fixes: Corroded terminals, frayed cables, bad grounds, a failed starter relay, or a blown fuse can mimic starter failure and cost far less to remedy.
• Return the core: If buying remanufactured, bring back the old starter to recoup the core charge (often $20–$60).

Good diagnostics typically cost less than replacing the wrong part and offer peace of mind that your money is solving the right problem.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

Quality doesn’t have to mean overpaying. These strategies can keep costs reasonable and reliability high.

• Consider reputable remanufactured or quality aftermarket brands (e.g., Denso, Bosch, Remy) when OEM pricing is high.
• Compare prices using your OEM part number to find equivalent units with matching specs and warranties.
• Get two to three quotes, including one from a well-reviewed independent shop or mobile mechanic.
• Bundle work: If the intake or a skid plate must come off, consider addressing nearby items (gaskets, belts) to save future labor.
• Use memberships, coupons, or loyalty programs for parts and labor discounts.
• Check warranties: Parts may carry 12-month/12,000-mile to limited lifetime coverage; labor usually isn’t covered beyond workmanship guarantees.

Balancing part quality, a fair labor rate, and a solid warranty usually delivers the best long-term value.

DIY Feasibility and Costs

For the mechanically inclined, a starter swap can be a manageable weekend job—though difficulty swings widely by vehicle.

• DIY parts cost: About $120–$400 for reman/new aftermarket; OEM typically higher.
• Tools and prep: Ratchet set with extensions and swivels, E-Torx or hex bits as applicable, jack stands/ramps, torque specs, battery memory or radio code if needed. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal first.
• Time and difficulty: 1–4 hours; from straightforward access to cramped, awkward angles that require under-car work.
• Risks: Stripped fasteners, damaged wiring, missing heat shields or shims, or failing to torque properly. If a security or idle relearn is needed, plan accordingly.
• Safety: Support the vehicle securely, wear eye protection, and avoid sparks near the battery.

If access looks tight or instructions call for removing major components, getting a professional quote is wise before diving in.

When Replacement Isn’t the Only Option

Sometimes you can fix the underlying issue without a full starter swap, depending on the model and failure mode.

• Contact/solenoid repair kits: Certain Toyota and Nissan units accept affordable contact kits ($20–$40) when the rest of the starter is healthy.
• Local rebuilders: Auto-electric shops can rebuild many starters for $150–$300, often with a warranty.
• Temporary measures: Tapping the starter may free stuck contacts once or twice but isn’t a fix and can damage components.

Ask a trusted shop whether your specific starter is a candidate for repair or rebuild; it’s not universal, but the savings can be significant.

Frequently Asked Cost Questions

These quick answers address common concerns that influence timing and budgeting.

1. Is it safe to drive with a failing starter? It won’t usually fail while driving, but you risk being stranded after the next shutdown. Plan replacement promptly.
2. How long do starters last? Often 100,000–200,000 miles; frequent short trips and start-stop systems can reduce lifespan.
3. Will warranty or insurance cover it? New-car powertrain or comprehensive warranties might, and extended warranties sometimes do; standard auto insurance typically does not.
4. How long will the repair take? Many jobs are same-day, with 1–3 hours of book labor plus diagnostic time and parts procurement.

If budget is tight, discuss timing with your shop and ask whether the vehicle shows imminent failure signs or intermittent issues that allow brief planning time.

Bottom Line

Most conventional vehicles will land between $300 and $900 for a starter replacement, rising for luxury or hard-to-access designs. You’ll control costs best by confirming the diagnosis, comparing parts options, and getting quotes from a reputable independent shop alongside the dealer. A little homework can save hundreds without sacrificing reliability.

Is it worth replacing a starter?

Yes, if your car’s starter has symptoms of failure, replacing it is worth it because it’s essential for starting the engine and getting your vehicle running again. Common signs include a clicking sound, slow engine cranking, or no response at all when trying to start. You should also check if the problem is a bad starter by testing the removed component at an auto parts store.

How do I tell if my starter is bad?

You can tell your car’s starter is bad if it makes a rapid clicking noise, a grinding sound, or a single loud click when you turn the key, or if the engine cranks very slowly or not at all. Other signs include a whirring noise without the engine turning, a smoke or burning smell from the engine, or starting issues that are inconsistent. The most telling sign is when the engine still won’t start even after a jump-start, indicating the problem is not the battery but the starter itself.
 
Listen for unusual sounds when starting the car: 

• Clicking: A single, loud click or several rapid clicks often mean the starter solenoid isn’t engaging properly, or the starter motor is weak. 
• Grinding: A harsh grinding noise occurs when the starter’s gear doesn’t mesh with the engine’s flywheel. 
• Whirring: A whirring sound without the engine cranking indicates the starter motor is spinning but isn’t engaging the engine. 

Check the engine’s starting behavior: 

• Slow cranking: The engine turns over but very slowly, like it’s struggling. 
• No crank: The engine doesn’t turn over at all when you turn the key. 
• Intermittent starts: The car sometimes starts normally but fails to start on other occasions. 

Look for visual or smell cues: 

• Smoke or burning smell: Opens in new tabIn some cases, a failing starter can produce smoke or an electrical burning smell.
• Oil-soaked starter: Opens in new tabVisual inspection might show oil or other fluids leaking onto the starter motor.

Perform a jump-start test: 

• The test: Connect jumper cables to a good car battery and your car’s battery, then try to start your vehicle.
• The result: If your car still doesn’t start, the problem is likely the starter, as the jump start would have eliminated the possibility of a dead battery.

Can I replace my starter myself?

Yes, you can typically replace your car’s starter yourself if you are comfortable working with electrical systems and have the right tools and basic mechanical knowledge, as it’s a beginner-friendly DIY task for many vehicles. The process involves safely lifting the car, disconnecting the battery, unbolting the old starter from its location between the engine and transmission, and installing the new one in reverse order. 
Key Steps & Considerations

1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts and injuries. 
2. Access the Starter: Safely lift the vehicle using a floor jack and jack stands, and place wheel chocks for stability. 
3. Locate the Starter: The starter motor is typically found where the engine and transmission meet. 
4. Remove the Old Starter: Use a socket and ratchet with an extension to remove the three bolts holding the starter in place. Note the wiring connections before removing them. 
5. Inspect and Prepare: Check the wiring for corrosion and clean it with sandpaper if needed. 
6. Install the New Starter: Mount the new starter by reversing the removal process, making sure to tighten the bolts securely. 
7. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the battery’s negative terminal. 
8. Prevent Corrosion: Apply silicone paste to the wire connections to prevent corrosion and use thread locker on the bolts to keep them from loosening. 

You can watch this video to learn how to replace a starter in your car: 51sScotty KilmerYouTube · Nov 4, 2014
Tools You’ll Need 

• Compatible starter motor for your vehicle
• Socket and ratchet set
• Wrench set
• Floor jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Safety glasses and gloves
• Sandpaper or wire brush for cleaning connections
• Silicone paste and thread locker (optional)

When to Seek Professional Help

• If you’re uncomfortable working with your vehicle’s electrical system. 
• If the starter is in a difficult-to-reach location. 
• If you encounter issues or feel overwhelmed during the process. 

Does autozone change the starter?

No. Replacing a starter is a much more involved job than anything Auto Zone does: it takes a proper workshop to replace a starter. Note that a lot of good starters get replaced because people don’t know how to properly test the starting system. Be sure you need a starter before you replace it.