How much should it cost to replace a starter motor?
The cost to replace a starter motor can vary significantly depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor costs in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 to have a starter motor replaced by a professional mechanic.
Understanding Starter Motor Replacement Costs
The starter motor is a critical component in your vehicle's electrical system, responsible for cranking the engine and allowing it to start. When a starter motor fails, it needs to be replaced to get your car back on the road. The total cost of a starter motor replacement includes the cost of the part itself and the labor required to install it.
Starter Motor Part Costs
- The cost of the starter motor part can range from $50 to $250, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
- Luxury and high-performance vehicles tend to have more expensive starter motors, while more common, economy cars have less expensive parts.
- You may be able to find a remanufactured starter motor for a lower cost than a brand-new one.
The labor costs for a starter motor replacement can vary widely, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the job. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 to $150 for the labor.
Additional Factors Affecting Starter Motor Replacement Costs
- The accessibility of the starter motor in your vehicle's design can impact labor costs. Some cars require more disassembly to reach the starter, increasing the time and effort required.
- If any other components, such as the battery or alternator, need to be replaced or repaired during the starter motor replacement, those additional parts and labor will add to the overall cost.
- The geographic location of the repair shop can also influence the labor rates, with shops in high-cost-of-living areas typically charging more.
To get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle, it's best to consult with a reputable mechanic or auto parts store in your area. They can provide a detailed breakdown of the parts and labor costs for your starter motor replacement.
How many hours does it take to replace a starter?
A failed starter stands in the way of using your vehicle at all, and once it's beginning to go, a replacement is the best way to restore its function. It can take an hour or more to replace the starter, and along with the average parts range of $100 to $400, it's going to take from one hour and up to install it.
Can you drive with a bad starter motor?
If you continue to drive with a faulty starter, you risk engine damage and increase the likelihood of being stranded due to unexpected vehicle failure.
What is a fair price to replace a starter?
The average cost for starter replacement is $728 to $820. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much starter repair costs in your local area.
Is replacing a starter motor a big job?
Replacing a starter motor isn't the simplest job for a mechanic. Quite often, there are a lot of components to get past to access it. It can take a good couple of hours to clear the way, remove it, pop its replacement in place and put everything back together again.
What is the average cost of replacing a starter motor?
The cost of replacing a starter motor in the UK can range from £150-£400 depending on the make and model of the car.
How do I know if my starter motor is bad?
In general, slow cranking can be a sign of either a weak battery or a starter in decline. Another warning sign is when you have to turn the key more than once to get the starter to engage. If you turn the key and get a hard clunk or click and you turn it again and it starts, that's almost always a bad starter.
What can be mistaken for a bad starter?
Battery Issues. A failing starter and battery problems can produce similar symptoms like slow engine cranking, but it's important to know how to tell them apart. A key tool for diagnosing these issues is a voltmeter. To rule out a dead or weak battery, measure the battery voltage with the voltmeter.
Is a starter motor expensive to replace?
The starter motor replacement price is dependent on the make and model of your car, but you can expect to fork out around $350 to $1,000 depending on make on model of the vehicle to get it sorted.
Can roadside assistance fix a starter?
Towing service: Your car can be towed to a destination of your choosing or the nearest mechanic. Battery jump-start service: Your provider will restart your battery if it dies. They can also perform minor adjustments to alternators, starters, and more.
Can you jump start a car with a bad starter?
While jump-starting your car despite having a bad starter is possible, it's best to replace the faulty part as soon as possible.
