How Much Is a Starter for a BMW 335i?

A replacement starter for a BMW 335i typically ranges from about $200 to $450 for the part alone, with total installed cost at most repair shops running roughly $500 to $900 in the U.S., depending on model year, brand, and labor rates. Below is a detailed breakdown of prices, what affects them, and how to shop smart for this repair.

Understanding the BMW 335i and Its Starter

The BMW 335i, especially popular in its E90/E92/E93 (2007–2013) and F30 (2012–2015) generations, uses a high-torque electric starter motor designed to handle the load of its turbocharged six-cylinder engine. When this component begins to fail, owners often face a significant but manageable repair bill, influenced by both parts and labor.

Typical Price Range for a BMW 335i Starter

Prices for starters vary by source, quality, and region, but there are common ranges most owners can expect when shopping for the part itself, without installation.

The following ranges summarize typical U.S. market prices (late 2024) for BMW 335i starter motors from various sources.

• Aftermarket starter (budget brands): About $200–$280
• Mid-range aftermarket starter (well-known brands): About $250–$350
• OEM-equivalent or genuine BMW starter: About $350–$450
• Dealer list price (genuine BMW): Often toward the upper end of $400–$500+ before discounts

These price brackets capture what most BMW 335i owners will see if they shop online or call local parts stores, with genuine BMW parts typically costing noticeably more than aftermarket options.

Total Installed Cost: Parts Plus Labor

While the part price is a major factor, labor charges can easily double the total bill, especially at dealerships or European specialty shops with higher hourly rates.

This breakdown outlines what you can typically expect to pay when having a BMW 335i starter replaced by a professional shop in the United States.

• Independent shop (non-dealer):
  

  • Labor: ~2–4 hours, often $120–$190 per hour
  • Estimated labor cost: about $250–$600
  • Total installed (with aftermarket starter): roughly $500–$800

• BMW dealership:
  

  • Labor: similar time, but hourly rates often $180–$250+
  • Estimated labor cost: about $350–$700
  • Total installed (with genuine BMW starter): roughly $650–$900+ in many markets

Actual quotes vary by city and by shop, but for most owners the final bill will land somewhere in the mid-hundreds, with dealers tending to be at the top of that spectrum.

Price Differences by Generation and Engine

The BMW 335i name spans several generations, and the exact starter price can shift slightly depending on year and engine code, even though the overall range remains similar.

The following overview highlights how generation and engine type can influence parts pricing for a 335i starter.

• E90/E92/E93 335i (2007–2010 N54 twin-turbo I6):
  

  • Starter part price: commonly around $220–$400 (aftermarket to OEM)
  • Availability: wide aftermarket support, easier to find lower-cost units

• E90/E92/E93 LCI & F30 335i (2011–2015 N55 single-turbo I6):
  

  • Starter part price: usually in the $240–$430 range
  • Design updates: slight part-number changes; always verify compatibility by VIN

• xDrive vs. rear-wheel drive:
  

  • In many cases the starter part itself is similar or identical
  • Labor time can vary slightly depending on access in AWD models

The generation of your 335i is less about dramatic cost swings and more about ensuring the correct part number and avoiding compatibility issues.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which Starter Should You Buy?

One key decision for owners is whether to choose a genuine BMW starter or trust an aftermarket or remanufactured part. Each option carries its own balance of cost, reliability, and warranty coverage.

The points below compare typical advantages and trade-offs between different starter options for a BMW 335i.

• Genuine BMW (OEM):
  

  • Highest price, usually in the top end of the range
  • Matched to factory specifications
  • Often comes with a strong warranty through the dealer (commonly 2 years when installed at a BMW dealer, but confirm locally)

• OEM-equivalent (e.g., Bosch, Valeo, Continental where applicable):
  

  • Often the same manufacturer that supplies BMW
  • Lower price than a “BMW boxed” part
  • Reputable warranties (commonly 12 months or more through major retailers)

• Budget aftermarket/remanufactured:
  

  • Most affordable, sometimes under $250
  • Quality can be more variable depending on brand and reman process
  • Usually fine if purchased from a reputable source with a clear warranty

For many 335i owners, a well-reviewed OEM-equivalent or high-quality remanufactured starter strikes a practical balance between dealer-level reliability and significantly lower cost.

What Affects the Final Price You Pay?

Beyond the part itself, several other factors determine how much you’ll actually spend to replace the starter on your BMW 335i.

The following considerations explain why two owners with the same model can receive very different quotes for the same repair.

• Labor rates in your area: Urban and coastal regions generally charge more per hour than smaller or rural markets.
• Shop type: Dealer, European specialist, and general independent garages each set different margins and rates.
• Part choice: Genuine BMW vs. aftermarket can shift the bill by $100–$200 or more.
• Additional recommended work: Shops may suggest replacing related hardware or addressing oil leaks while access is open, increasing the total.
• Taxes and shop fees: Environmental fees, shop supplies, and local tax rates add to the bottom line.

Understanding these drivers helps you interpret quotes and decide whether a higher price is justified by better parts, service, or convenience.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your 335i

Because starter prices and labor can fluctuate, the most reliable way to know your real cost is to obtain targeted estimates using your exact car information.

These steps outline how to get realistic, itemized quotes for a BMW 335i starter replacement.

• Use your VIN when calling or searching: Provide the full VIN so shops and parts suppliers can match the correct starter.
• Ask for parts and labor separately: Request a breakdown listing the starter price, labor hours, and shop fees.
• Compare at least two or three quotes: Contact a BMW dealer, a European specialist, and a reputable independent shop.
• Check whether the quote includes OEM or aftermarket parts: Clarify brand, warranty length, and whether the starter is new or remanufactured.
• Confirm warranty details: Ask how long the part and labor are covered and what’s required to make a claim.

By following this approach, you can quickly see where prices cluster and decide whether a premium dealership repair or a more economical independent shop best fits your priorities.

Signs Your BMW 335i Starter May Need Replacement

Owners sometimes suspect a failing battery or alternator when the real culprit is the starter. Recognizing common symptoms can help you plan financially before the starter fails completely.

The following indicators are commonly associated with starter-related issues on a BMW 335i.

• Clicking but no crank: You hear a sharp click when pressing Start, but the engine doesn’t turn over.
• Intermittent starting problems: Sometimes the engine cranks normally, other times nothing happens despite a good battery.
• Slow or labored cranking: The engine turns slowly even after confirming the battery is fully charged and cables are clean.
• Burning smell or smoke near starter area: A serious sign that the starter motor may be overheating or failing internally.
• Battery and alternator test good: Electrical checks come back normal, pointing to the starter or related wiring.

Having a technician confirm the diagnosis before ordering parts is crucial, as multiple components can cause similar no-start symptoms.

Can You Replace a BMW 335i Starter Yourself?

Some experienced DIY owners do tackle this job, but it’s more involved than on many mainstream vehicles due to tight packaging and the complexity of BMW electronics.

These considerations can help you decide whether to attempt a do-it-yourself starter replacement on a 335i.

• Skill level: Best for intermediate to advanced DIYers comfortable working around high-current wiring and under-car access.
• Tools required: Quality socket set, extensions, Torx/E-Torx bits, jack and stands or a lift, and a torque wrench.
• Safety steps: Proper battery disconnection and secure vehicle support are essential to avoid injury or electronic damage.
• Time investment: A first-timer may spend several hours; professionals with lifts and experience are much faster.
• Potential savings: You may cut the total bill roughly in half by only paying for the part, but mistakes can be costly.

For many 335i owners, paying a competent shop for this repair offers peace of mind and avoids the risk of damage to wiring, modules, or drivetrain components.

Summary

A starter for a BMW 335i usually costs $200–$450 for the part, with total professional replacement commonly running $500–$900 in the United States, depending on year, region, shop type, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket. Labor makes up a large share of the bill, especially at dealerships. By confirming your VIN, comparing quotes, and weighing part quality versus price, you can choose a repair option that fits both your budget and your expectations for reliability.

How do I know if my BMW starter is bad?

Some common signs include:

1. A clicking sound when attempting to start your car.
2. Sluggish and delayed engine performance.
3. Engine does not turn over at all—or turns over but fails to start up (perhaps making loud noises).

How much does it cost to replace a starter on a BMW 335i?

The cost to replace a BMW 335i starter typically ranges from $700 to $1,200, but this can vary depending on the parts needed and labor rates. DIY replacement can significantly lower the cost by eliminating labor fees, with starter parts available for as low as $100. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Parts cost: Starter motors for the BMW 335i can range from around $100 for aftermarket options to over $400 for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, such as those from Bosch. 
• Labor cost: This is a major variable, depending on the shop’s hourly rates and the time it takes to complete the job. Some online estimates suggest a total cost in the $1,100 to $1,300 range for a professional replacement. 
• Complexity: The process for replacing the starter can be complex on a BMW 335i, which can drive up labor costs.

How to save on replacement costs

• DIY: If you are comfortable with car repair, you can save on labor costs by replacing the starter yourself. You will still need to purchase the part, which can be found for around $100 or more. 
• Shop around: Get quotes from multiple mechanics, including independent European car shops, to compare prices for both parts and labor. 
• Consider aftermarket parts: While OEM parts are generally higher quality, you can often find reliable aftermarket starters for significantly less money, as shown by the lower-priced options on sites like Advance Auto Parts. 

When to replace the starter

• A clicking noise when trying to start the car
• A grinding sound
• A sluggish or delayed engine start
• No noise at all when the key is turned 

Is it worth replacing a starter?

They typically last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles, but when they fail, replacing them is a non-negotiable to get your vehicle running again. A remanufactured starter is an excellent option for many car owners looking for a balance of cost and reliability. Remanufacturing is not the same as rebuilding.

Why is my BMW 335i not starting?

The most common reasons a BMW 335i won’t start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions.