Are starters expensive to fix?
Starters can be expensive to fix, with total costs often ranging from a few hundred dollars up to over a thousand, depending on make, model and whether you need a new unit or a remanufactured one.
What a starter does and how it fails
The starter motor is what turns the engine over when you start your car. If the engine won’t turn over, you hear a click, or you hear a humming or grinding sound in the engine bay, the starter or its wiring may be at fault.
Common symptoms that point to a failing starter include:
- The engine cranks slowly or not at all when you turn the key
- A single loud click or a series of clicks when attempting to start
- The starter motor spins, but the engine doesn’t catch
- Starting problems that occur after the car sits for a while or when the battery is weaker
- Normal dashboard lights but a no-start condition
If you notice these signs, have a qualified mechanic diagnose the system to confirm whether the starter is the culprit or if the problem lies with the battery, alternator, or wiring.
What drives the cost
Several factors determine how much a starter repair or replacement will cost, including the vehicle’s make and model, the type of starter, and the complexity of the job. Regional labor rates and whether other components must be replaced alongside the starter also matter.
Starter types and implications
Starter motors come in several varieties (conventional flywheel starters, compact modern starters, and remanufactured units). Some vehicles require specific OEM parts or high-performance starters, which can raise price but may improve reliability or warranty terms.
Other cost drivers include:
- Vehicle type: Luxury brands and newer models often use more expensive, OEM, or specialty starters
- Labor time: Accessibility matters; some starters are easy to reach, others require extensive dash or engine access
- Additional parts: Worn cables, solenoids, or a failing battery may be replaced at the same time
- Diagnostics and towing: Some shops charge for diagnosis or towing if the car can’t be started
Understanding these factors helps in obtaining accurate quotes and choosing between repair and replacement options.
Cost ranges and repair options
Prices vary by vehicle and region, but the ranges below reflect common scenarios for non-high-end vehicles in 2025. Always get multiple quotes and confirm what is included in the price.
- Basic starter replacement (average car, aftermarket parts): roughly 300–750 total, including parts and labor
- OEM/brand-specific or luxury models: roughly 600–1,100 total
- High-complexity applications (diesel, hybrids, or specialty brands): roughly 800–1,400 total
Note that the root cause may be the battery or alternator rather than the starter itself, so a thorough diagnostic is essential before committing to replacement.
How to avoid costly mistakes
To keep repairs affordable and avoid paying for unnecessary work, follow these steps:
- Shop around and get quotes from at least three independent shops and a dealer if appropriate
- Ask the shop to test the battery and alternator before replacing the starter
- Consider remanufactured starters if covered by a solid warranty
- Ensure the quote includes diagnostic time and a warranty on labor and parts
- Factor in potential towing costs if the car can’t be driven
Being proactive and comparing options helps ensure you pay for a fix that actually solves the problem and lasts.
Summary
Starters can be expensive to fix, but costs are usually manageable when the issue is properly diagnosed and the right replacement option is chosen. In general, most repairs fall in the hundreds of dollars range, with higher-end or complex vehicles pushing toward the low thousands. A careful diagnostic, comparison shopping, and considering remanufactured parts can save money while ensuring reliable starts.
Is it worth fixing a car with a bad starter?
It depends on the condition of the starter. If the problem is minor (e.g., bad wiring or a weak solenoid), a repair might be possible. However, if the starter is completely worn out or frequently failing, replacement is the better long-term solution.
Can I drive with a bad starter?
No, you should not drive with a bad starter because it can fail completely, leaving you stranded. While the engine will run fine once it's started, a bad starter means the car may not start again, and continuing to try can cause further damage to the engine and other components.
This video explains how a bad starter can damage your car's flywheel and transmission: 1mDespair RepairYouTube · Sep 7, 2025
Risks of driving with a bad starter
- You could get stranded: If the starter fails completely, the engine won't crank, and you won't be able to restart your car after it's turned off.
- Further damage: Repeatedly trying to start the car with a faulty starter can strain other parts of the engine, potentially leading to more expensive repairs.
- Battery drain: A failing starter or solenoid can also drain your battery, which could lead to a no-start situation even if the starter itself was the only problem.
- Safety risk: A sudden breakdown in traffic can put you in a dangerous situation.
What to do instead
- Get it towed: The safest option is to have your car towed to a mechanic for a professional diagnosis and repair.
- Drive directly to a shop (if possible): If you can get the car started (perhaps with a jump or a temporary fix), drive directly to a mechanic without making any unnecessary stops.
- Don't ignore the problem: A bad starter is often the first sign of a system that is beginning to fail, and waiting for it to break down completely is a risk.
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.
How much does it cost to repair a starter?
A brand-new starter can range from $80 to over $350. For a qualified mechanic to replace or rebuild your starter, you can expect to pay between $150 and over $1,100. These estimates vary dramatically depending on the particular issue and the make, model, and year of your vehicle.
