How much is a starter for a 2002 Honda Civic LX?

Expect to pay about $90–$180 for a remanufactured aftermarket starter, $130–$250 for a new aftermarket unit, and $300–$500 for a genuine Honda (OEM) starter. With professional installation, total out-the-door costs in the U.S. typically land between $250 and $650 depending on parts choice and local labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown of what drives the price and how to choose the right option.

Current price ranges and what they include

Starter prices vary by brand, warranty, and whether you choose remanufactured, new aftermarket, or OEM. For a 2002 Honda Civic LX (1.7L, automatic or manual), most retailers carry multiple options, and availability remains strong despite the vehicle’s age.

Typical parts pricing (U.S. market)

The following points outline common price bands you’ll see at national parts chains and online retailers.

• Remanufactured aftermarket: $90–$180 (often includes a core charge refundable upon returning your old starter)
• New aftermarket: $130–$250 (no core in many cases, longer warranties from certain brands)
• OEM Honda: $300–$500 (through dealerships or OEM-focused retailers; usually the highest price, with strong fitment confidence)

These ranges reflect mainstream brands and typical promotions; sales and regional supply can push prices slightly below or above these bands.

Labor and total installed cost

Professional installation isn’t usually labor-intensive on this generation Civic, but shop rates vary widely by region.

• Labor time: roughly 0.9–1.2 hours for most shops
• Shop rates: about $110–$180 per hour in many metro areas
• Installed totals: typically $250–$650, depending on part type and local labor rates

If you choose an OEM starter and visit a dealership with higher hourly rates, your total could approach the upper end of the range; independent shops and aftermarket parts usually land near the middle.

Where to buy and what to expect

Most buyers compare a few sources to balance price, warranty, and convenience. Expect similar pricing across major chains, with online sellers sometimes undercutting local stores.

• National parts chains (e.g., AutoZone, O’Reilly, Advance): Competitive pricing, immediate pickup, and easy warranty handling
• Online retailers (e.g., RockAuto, major e-commerce marketplaces): Wider brand selection and frequent discounts, but shipping time applies
• Honda dealerships and OEM specialists: Best for OEM parts and warranty support, typically the highest price
• Local rebuilders: Can be cost-effective and quick if you have a core; quality depends on the rebuilder’s reputation

If your Civic is a daily driver and you need it back quickly, local availability may outweigh modest online savings.

Factors that affect price

Several variables influence the final price you’ll pay for a starter, beyond the basic choice between remanufactured, aftermarket new, and OEM.

• Transmission type: Starters can differ between automatic and manual—verify fitment before purchasing
• Engine and trim specifics: The 2002 Civic LX uses the 1.7L D17 engine; confirm any sub-variant fit notes
• Brand and warranty: Premium aftermarket brands and longer warranties can cost more but may offer better reliability
• Core charges: Remanufactured units often carry a core charge ($20–$60) refunded when you return the old part
• Regional labor rates: Urban and coastal markets typically charge higher hourly rates

Confirm your VIN or use a fitment checker on retailer sites to ensure you get the correct part the first time.

DIY vs. professional installation

Replacing a starter on a 2001–2005 Civic is a manageable DIY job for experienced home mechanics with proper tools and safety practices. For others, a professional install ensures reliability and protects warranties.

• DIY advantages: Lowest cost, immediate control over part choice, and flexibility on timing
• DIY considerations: Battery disconnect is mandatory; access can be tight; torque specs and wiring orientation matter
• Professional advantages: Faster turnaround, warranty-friendly, and diagnostic confirmation if the issue isn’t the starter

If you’re unsure the starter is the root cause (e.g., could be a weak battery, corroded cables, or bad ignition switch), a shop’s diagnostic can prevent unnecessary parts replacement.

Sample cost scenarios

To help set expectations, here are common scenarios Civic owners encounter when replacing a starter.

1. Budget job at an independent shop: $120 reman unit + $140 labor = about $260 (plus tax, core refunded)
2. Midrange aftermarket new at an independent: $180 part + $150 labor = about $330
3. OEM unit at a dealership: $420 part + $180 labor = about $600

Your actual total can vary based on local pricing, taxes, shop fees, and whether a core charge applies.

Buying and fitment tips

A few steps up front can save time and avoid returns.

• Verify transmission type and engine details before purchasing
• Check the warranty length (years/miles) and whether labor is covered
• Keep your receipt and return the core promptly to recover the deposit
• Inspect the electrical connections and battery health to avoid repeat no-starts

Spending a few minutes on fitment and electrical checks often pays off in a smooth, one-and-done repair.

Summary

For a 2002 Honda Civic LX, starters typically cost $90–$180 for remanufactured aftermarket, $130–$250 for new aftermarket, and $300–$500 for OEM. Installed totals usually run $250–$650, depending on labor rates and parts choice. Verify fitment by transmission and engine, consider warranty value, and factor in potential core charges when comparing options.

How much is a starter for a 2002 Honda Civic?

The average price for a 2002 Honda Civic Starter Part at Advance Auto Parts is around $199.27, with a range that starts at $110.20 and goes up to $498.99.

How much is a 2002 Honda Civic LX worth?

The value of a 2002 Honda Civic LX varies significantly based on condition, mileage, and specific features, but generally falls in the range of $1,000 to $4,000, with Kelley Blue Book (KBB) estimating a KBB Fair Purchase Price of around $3,302 for the LX Sedan and $2,598 for the LX Coupe as of a recent check. To get a precise value, it’s best to use appraisal tools like those on KBB.com or Edmunds.com and input your car’s specific details. 
Factors affecting value

• Condition: The overall mechanical and cosmetic condition is the most significant factor. 
• Mileage: Cars with lower mileage command higher prices, while those with very high mileage (like 200k+) may be valued closer to $1,000 or less. 
• Location: The available market in your area affects what buyers are willing to pay. 
• Vehicle History: A clean vehicle history with no accidents can also increase value. 
• Body Style: Sedans might hold slightly more value than coupes, according to KBB. 

How to find a more precise value

1. Visit an appraisal website: Go to Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) or Edmunds.com. 
2. Enter your specific details: Provide your exact mileage, condition, and any features to get a personalized value estimate for trade-in and private party sales.
3. Check local listings: Look at sites like Cars.com to see what similar vehicles are selling for in your local market. 

How do I know if my Honda Civic starter is bad?

You know your Honda Civic starter is bad if your engine makes a single click, a rapid clicking noise, or a grinding noise when you try to start it. Other symptoms include the engine cranking slowly or failing to crank at all, dimming dashboard lights when you attempt to start, or seeing smoke or an electrical burning smell. 
Common Symptoms of a Bad Starter

• Clicking Noises: A rapid, clicking sound when you turn the key often signals a weak battery or failing starter. A single click could mean the starter solenoid is bad or the starter isn’t engaging properly. 
• Engine Cranks Slowly or Not at All: If the engine turns over very slowly or just won’t start, your starter motor may be worn out. 
• Grinding or Whirring Sounds: A grinding noise can happen if the starter’s pinion gear doesn’t disengage from the engine’s flywheel, or if the starter drive is faulty. 
• Dimming Lights: When you try to start the car, if the headlights or dashboard lights dim significantly, the battery might be weak, or the starter is drawing too much power. 
• Smoke or Burning Smell: These are clear indicators of an electrical issue, possibly from the starter overheating or having a fluid leak. 
• Intermittent Starting Issues: The starter may fail sometimes and work other times, a classic sign of impending failure. 

Troubleshooting Steps

1. 1. Check Your Battery: . Opens in new tabBefore assuming the starter is bad, test your battery. A weak battery is a more common cause of starting problems. 
2. 2. Check Connections: . Opens in new tabInspect the battery terminals and connections for corrosion or looseness. 
3. 3. Check the Starter Relay and Fuses: . Opens in new tabA blown fuse or a faulty starter relay can prevent the starter from working. 
4. 4. Perform a Voltage Test: . Opens in new tabYou can test the starter by applying full battery voltage to it when in the “crank” position. If there’s no voltage, the starter is likely bad. 
5. 5. Listen to the Starter: . Opens in new tabIf you hear a click but the engine doesn’t turn, and the battery is good, the starter motor or its solenoid is likely the issue. 

How much is a starter for a Honda Civic LX?

The average cost for a Honda Civic Starter Replacement is between $499 and $916. Labor costs are estimated between $159 and $234 while parts are priced between $340 and $682.