How much is a starter for an old car?

Starter motors for old cars usually cost from about $40 to $350, with most mid‑century models in the $100–$300 range. Rare or highly specialized parts can run higher.

This article explains price ranges, what affects cost, where to buy, and practical tips for selecting and fitting an electric starter for vintage vehicles.

Typical price ranges for starters by era and condition

Voltage and compatibility considerations

Prices depend on the car's electrical system (6V vs 12V), as well as whether the starter is remanufactured, rebuilt, or new aftermarket. The ranges below reflect common offerings from mainstream suppliers and specialty vendors.

• Used or tested take‑out units for 6V or 12V systems: roughly $40–$120.


• Remanufactured starters (common vintage cars, 6V or 12V): roughly $100–$260.


• New aftermarket starters (for older models with generic fitments): roughly $120–$350.


• New OEM or high‑quality remanufactured for specific classic makes/models: roughly $180–$500.


• Specialty or antique models (rare kits or restoration-specific units): often $250–$600 or more; some extremely early cars require custom builds.


• Core charges: many new/remanufactured starters carry a core deposit (often $20–$100), refunded when you return the old unit.

Concluding: If you’re shopping for a starter, expect to spend in the low hundreds for common vintage cars, with higher‑end or rare‑model units reaching the upper end. Used or rebuilt options can offer savings but come with reliability trade‑offs.

What factors drive the price of a starter for an old car

Core charges and warranty

Several variables determine the sticker price, from technical compatibility to the supplier’s warranty. The following list outlines the main cost drivers.

• Voltage type (6V vs 12V) and compatibility with the car’s electrical system.


• Condition and source (used, remanufactured, or new aftermarket).


• Brand reputation and whether it targets generic vs model‑specific fitment.


• Core charge and return policy.


• Warranty length and coverage terms.


• Model‑specific fit (some classics require unique mounting patterns or solenoids).


• Availability and lead times from aftermarket vs specialty suppliers.

Concluding: The price is a function of compatibility, condition, and supplier. Always verify exact application and voltage before purchase.

Where to buy a starter for an old car and what to ask

Shopping sources

Choosing a retailer matters as much as choosing the unit. The following sources are common, along with tips on what to check before buying.

• Local auto parts stores with a vintage or classic car section.


• Online marketplaces and specialty retailers (e.g., RockAuto, Summit Racing, classic car parts vendors).


• Classic car restoration shops and engine builders offering rebuilds or custom units.


• Salvage yards with older vehicles, noting condition and compatibility.


• Reputable remanufacturers that provide warranty and clear return policies.

Concluding: Do your homework—confirm voltage, mounting style, and wire connections. Ask about warranties, core deposits, and whether the unit comes tested or with bench warranty.

Tips for getting value when replacing a starter on a vintage car

Smart shopping tactics

Practical guidance to save money and avoid common pitfalls.

• Know your car’s exact year, make, model, engine type, and whether it uses 6V or 12V power; mismatches are common and costly.


• Consider a rebuilt unit from a reputable remanufacturer instead of an unknown seller; ask about testing standards.


• Ask about core return options and whether you need to supply the old starter to avoid additional fees.


• Plan for shipping time and potential lead times for rare or special‑order parts.


• Factor in installation labor if you’re not installing it yourself; a professional can check the flywheel and solenoid compatibility.

Concluding: Verified parts with solid warranties typically offer better long‑term value than the cheapest option, especially for classic cars where reliability matters.

Summary

For an old car, a starter typically costs anywhere from about $40 to $500, depending on the vehicle’s voltage, the unit’s condition, and whether it’s remanufactured or new. Most mid‑century classics fall in the $100–$350 range, with higher prices for rare or model‑specific units. Always verify voltage, mounting, and wiring compatibility, and be aware of core charges and warranty terms. With careful shopping, you can balance upfront cost with reliability to keep vintage vehicles reliably turning over.

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 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.

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 should it cost to replace a starter?

Replacing a car starter typically costs between $700 and $1,200, but this can vary significantly based on your vehicle's make and model, location, and part quality. Simpler jobs on common cars might range from a few hundred dollars, while luxury or hard-to-access vehicles could cost over $1,000. 
Cost breakdown and factors

• Average Range: The average total cost for parts and labor is between $700 and $1,200, but can be as low as $200 for easy jobs or exceed $1,000 for more complex ones. 
• Parts: Starter costs depend on quality. Economy starters may range from $75–$200, while OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) starters can cost $150–$400 or more. High-performance starters can be $300–$1,000+. 
• Labor: Labor costs are often a smaller percentage of the total, but can be significant depending on how difficult the starter is to access. Some cars require more time and effort to replace the starter, which drives up the cost. 
• Vehicle Type:
  • Common cars: Replacing a starter on a common sedan like a Honda Civic or Toyota Camry may cost less due to more affordable parts and easier access. 
  • Trucks and luxury/performance cars: Vehicles like a Ford F-150 or BMW 750i can be more expensive. Starters on these vehicles may be harder to reach, requiring more labor. 
• Location: Your geographic location can impact both the cost of parts and the shop's labor rate. 

How to get a more accurate estimate
To get the most accurate price, you can:

• Use an online repair cost estimator that allows you to input your vehicle's specific make and model. 
• Contact a few local repair shops for quotes based on your vehicle's information.