Is it worth replacing a starter?
When your car refuses to start, one of the first culprits that might come to mind is the starter. The starter is a critical component of your vehicle's ignition system, and when it fails, it can leave you stranded. But is it worth replacing a faulty starter, or should you consider other options? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
What Does a Starter Do?
The starter is an electric motor that engages the engine when you turn the key or press the start button. It draws power from the battery to crank the engine and get it running. Without a functioning starter, your car simply won’t start.
Signs Your Starter Might Be Failing
Before deciding whether to replace your starter, it’s important to confirm that it’s the source of the problem. Here are some common signs of a failing starter:
- Clicking Noise: When you turn the key, you might hear a clicking sound, but the engine doesn’t crank.
- Intermittent Starting Issues: Sometimes the car starts fine, but other times it doesn’t respond at all.
- Grinding Noise: A grinding sound when starting could indicate that the starter gear is worn or not engaging properly.
- Smoke or Burning Smell: Overheating due to electrical issues in the starter can cause smoke or a burning odor.
Is Replacing a Starter Worth It?
In most cases, replacing a faulty starter is worth it, especially if the rest of your vehicle is in good condition. Here’s why:
- Cost-Effective Solution: Replacing a starter is generally less expensive than buying a new car or dealing with more extensive engine repairs.
- Improved Reliability: A new starter ensures your car starts reliably, reducing the risk of being stranded.
- Longevity: Starters typically last several years, so replacing it can give you peace of mind for the foreseeable future.
When Might It Not Be Worth Replacing?
While replacing a starter is often a good investment, there are situations where it might not be worth it:
- Older Vehicles: If your car is nearing the end of its lifespan or has other significant issues, it might make more sense to invest in a new vehicle.
- High Repair Costs: In rare cases, the cost of replacing the starter might be high due to labor or parts availability, making it less economical.
Tips for Replacing a Starter
If you’ve decided to replace your starter, here are some tips to ensure a smooth process:
- Get a Professional Diagnosis: Before replacing the starter, have a trusted mechanic confirm that it’s the root cause of the problem.
- Choose Quality Parts: Opt for a high-quality replacement starter to ensure durability and performance.
- Consider Labor Costs: If you’re not comfortable replacing the starter yourself, factor in the cost of professional installation.
Conclusion
In most cases, replacing a starter is a worthwhile investment that restores your car’s functionality and reliability. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of the repair against the overall condition of your vehicle. At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve been helping drivers with starter replacements and other repairs for years. If you’re unsure about your next step, feel free to reach out to us for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I 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.
Is changing a starter motor a big job?
Starter motor replacement is a reasonably straightforward job, although it usually requires the removal of other ancillaries to be able to gain access to the motor and could take a home mechanic up to around three hours.
What is the lifespan of a car starter?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
The average starter lasts for 100,000 to 200,000 miles or 80,000 to 100,000 starts. The exact length of time a starter lasts depends on the engine's design, the driving habits of the owner, the conditions under which the vehicle is used, and other factors.
How much should a starter job cost?
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.
What are the signs of a bad starter?
You know you have a bad starter when your car won't start, you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key, or if the engine cranks very slowly. Other signs include unusual grinding noises or intermittent starting issues where sometimes your car starts fine and doesn't respond at all other times.
Can I keep driving with a bad starter?
Driving with a bad starter is not recommended for a long time. Severity of the issue and engine's ability to turn over determine safe driving distance. A starter helps start the engine by igniting fuel with spark plugs. If it's faulty, drive cautiously. Hard starts and severe damage can lead to engine 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 does it cost to replace a starter on a car?
The average cost for a Starter Replacement is between $456 and $630. Labor costs are estimated between $125 and $158 while parts are priced between $331 and $473.
What are the symptoms of a bad starter?
What Are Common Bad Starter Symptoms?
- Something sounds off.
- You've got lights but no action.
- Your engine won't crank.
- Smoke is coming from your car.
- Oil has soaked the starter.
- Look under the hood.
- Tap the starter.
- Adjust the transmission.
At what mileage does a starter go out?
about 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles
On average, you can plan to get about 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles out of your car, truck, utility vehicle's starter. This is the average lifespan of the part. C&C Automotive advises that you might get one or more signs that your starter is going bad before it actually dies. We are going to list these signs below.
