How much does a starter cost on a Honda?
A typical starter for a Honda part costs about $100 to $450, with installed prices generally ranging from $300 to $900 depending on the model, year, and labor costs. This article breaks down the main price drivers and provides model-specific examples to help you estimate the total.
Prices vary by whether you buy a remanufactured unit, a new OEM starter, or an aftermarket replacement, and by where you have the work done. Regional labor rates and whether you shop at a dealer or an independent shop also influence the final bill. Read on for a detailed look at parts costs, installation costs, and model-specific examples.
Parts cost
When shopping for the actual starter unit, you’ll typically find several sourcing options with different price points.
- Remanufactured/rebuilt starter (aftermarket): roughly $100–$200
- New OEM Honda starter: roughly $250–$450
- Aftermarket new starter (non-OEM brands): roughly $120–$300
Prices can vary by model year and supplier, and warranties differ: remanufactured units often have shorter warranties than OEM starters, while aftermarket brands vary by manufacturer.
Labor and installation
Labor costs depend on region and shop, and some Honda engines are easier to access than others. The following ranges cover typical installation scenarios for a standard starter replacement.
- Labor time: 1–2 hours for most models; 2–3 hours for harder-to-reach installations
- Labor rate: $75–$125 per hour in many U.S. shops; higher in major metropolitan areas
- Installed price range: roughly $300–$700 for common models; $500–$1,000+ for complex cases or dealer service
Always obtain a written estimate that clearly separates parts, labor, core charges, and any warranty or return terms.
Cost examples by Honda model
Civic (compact)
For the Civic, starter prices tend to follow the general ranges, with ample availability of remanufactured units and OEM replacements.
- Remanufactured starter: about $100–$180
- New OEM starter: about $250–$400
- Aftermarket new starter: about $120–$280
Installed cost for a Civic typically runs around $350–$700, depending on year and engine configuration.
Accord (midsize)
Accord models may use slightly larger or differently configured starters; OEM and aftermarket options are widely available.
- Remanufactured starter: about $120–$210
- New OEM starter: about $260–$450
- Aftermarket new starter: about $150–$320
Installed price usually falls in the $450–$900 range, with dealer installations sometimes higher.
CR-V (SUV)
CR-V and other SUVs can incur a bit more labor time due to space constraints, affecting the installed cost.
- Remanufactured starter: about $110–$190
- New OEM starter: about $260–$430
- Aftermarket new starter: about $130–$320
Total installed costs for a CR-V typically run roughly $450–$900, though higher-end scenarios may exceed that.
Summary
Starter costs for a Honda span a broad range depending on sourcing and model. Parts alone typically run from about $100 to $450, with installed prices commonly in the $300 to $900 range. To get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle, compare quotes from a few shops, consider remanufactured options to save money, and confirm warranty terms and any core charges.
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 replace a Honda starter?
The total cost for a Honda starter replacement typically ranges from $400 to over $1,000, with the average being between $700 and $1,200. The price depends on the specific Honda model and year, the cost of the new part (which can range from $100 to over $350), and labor costs.
Cost breakdown
- Parts: A new starter can cost anywhere from $100 to over $350, depending on whether it's a new, remanufactured, or high-performance part.
- Labor: The complexity of the job affects the labor cost. Some starters are easily accessible, while others may require removing other engine components. A dealership will likely have higher labor rates than an independent shop.
- Total:
- Independent shops: Expect to pay around $400 to $600 for parts and labor.
- Dealerships: The total cost could reach $1,000 or more, depending on the model and parts used.
Factors that influence the cost
- Vehicle make, model, and year: A starter on a newer or more complex model will likely be more expensive to replace than one on an older vehicle.
- Shop rates: The hourly labor rate of the mechanic you choose will affect the final price.
- Part quality: The cost of a brand-new starter versus a remanufactured one can vary significantly.
- Accessibility of the starter: If the starter is in a hard-to-reach location, it will take more labor time to replace, increasing the total cost.
How to tell if a Honda starter is bad?
What Are Common Bad Starter Symptoms?
- Clicking, Grinding, or Whirring Noises.
- Power Without Crank.
- Your Engine Won't Start After a Jump.
- Smoke Is Coming From Your Car.
- Oil-Soaked Starter.
- Start with the Battery.
- Shift to Neutral.
- Check the fuel gauge.
How long do starters last in Honda's?
Honda starter motors typically last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles, though this can vary based on factors like driving habits and climate. Factors like frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, and a weak battery can shorten a starter's lifespan.
Factors that affect starter lifespan
- Mileage and age: A starter motor's lifespan is often quoted in mileage, with the average being 100,000 to 150,000 miles or 7–10 years.
- Climate: Extreme cold or heat can accelerate wear and tear.
- Driving habits: Frequent short trips put more strain on the starter motor because it has to work when the engine is cold.
- Battery health: A weak or undercharged battery can cause the starter motor to work harder, leading to premature degradation.
- Fluid leaks: Oil or coolant leaks can cause a starter to fail prematurely.
- Manufacturer quality: The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) starters often outlast some aftermarket units.
Signs that a starter needs replacement
- Clicking sound when you turn the key
- Grinding or whirring noise while starting
- The engine won't start at all
- The engine starts and then immediately stops
If you suspect a problem, it's best to get your starter inspected by a professional.
