How much 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 associated with the repair. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 to replace a starter motor, including both parts and labor.
Understanding Starter Motors and Replacement Costs
A starter motor is a critical component in your vehicle's electrical system, responsible for cranking the engine and initiating the combustion process. Over time, starter motors can wear out or fail, requiring replacement. The cost of a replacement starter motor can be influenced by several factors:
- Vehicle Make and Model: The cost of the starter motor itself can vary widely depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle. Luxury or high-performance vehicles may have more expensive starter motors compared to more common, economy-focused models.
- Labor Costs: The labor required to replace a starter motor can also significantly impact the overall cost. Depending on the accessibility of the starter motor in your vehicle, the labor time can range from 1 to 3 hours, with higher labor rates in certain regions or for specialized mechanics.
- Replacement Part Quality: You can choose between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket alternatives, with OEM parts typically being more expensive but potentially offering better quality and compatibility.
It's important to note that the cost can also be influenced by any additional repairs or components that may need to be addressed during the starter motor replacement process, such as related electrical issues or other worn components.
Factors Affecting Starter Motor Replacement Costs
When considering the cost to replace a starter motor, there are several key factors to keep in mind:
- Vehicle Make and Model: As mentioned earlier, the specific make and model of your vehicle can significantly impact the cost of the replacement starter motor.
- Labor Costs: The labor required to access and replace the starter motor can vary depending on the vehicle's design and the mechanic's hourly rate.
- Replacement Part Quality: Choosing between OEM or aftermarket parts can affect the overall cost, with OEM parts typically being more expensive but potentially offering better quality and compatibility.
- Additional Repairs: In some cases, the starter motor replacement may uncover other related issues, such as electrical problems or worn components, which can add to the overall repair cost.
It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from reputable mechanics or auto repair shops to ensure you're getting a fair price for the starter motor replacement.
How much does a mechanic charge to replace 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.
How much does a starter motor cost to change?
The average cost of replacing a starter motor is £225, with prices ranging from £160 to £325. Depending on the vehicle type, the starter motor's location is not always easily accessible and can take a couple of hours to remove the old starter motor, install the new starter motor and assemble everything back together.
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.
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.
How much should I pay someone to change my 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.
How much should a starter motor replacement cost?
around $400 to $600
The average cost of a starter motor replacement is around $400 to $600, although speciality and luxury models may be significantly more.
