Where is the starter located in a 2007 Chevy Impala?
The starter on a 2007 Chevy Impala is mounted to the engine block on the passenger side, near the bell housing that connects the engine to the automatic transmission. It’s a compact, cylindrical unit with a large power lead and a smaller signal wire, typically accessible from beneath the vehicle or through the engine bay depending on the engine option.
Understanding the layout on a 2007 Impala
In the 2007 Impala, which used a transverse front-wheel-drive layout, the starter sits along the side of the engine block near where the transmission attaches. This arrangement places the starter toward the passenger side of the car, with the drive gear engaging the flywheel or flexplate when the key is turned. Access can vary slightly between engine choices, but the overall location remains consistent.
Visual cues to identify the starter
The starter is a small to mid-sized cylindrical metal component. Look for a bulky terminal housing with two large cables connected to the rear and a smaller wire or solenoid connection. Its position is just behind or beside the engine’s front area, adjacent to the bell housing where the transmission meets the engine.
How to locate and inspect the starter on a 2007 Impala
Before you begin any inspection or replacement, ensure you follow proper safety steps. The following approach describes a typical method to locate the starter on this model year.
- Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent shorts while you work.
- Either raise the front of the vehicle for undercar access or position yourself in the passenger-side wheel well to get a clear view of the engine-to-transmission junction.
- Locate the starter on the engine block near the bell housing; on a transverse engine, this places the unit along the passenger side of the engine bay.
- Identify the starter by its cylindrical body with a solenoid on or near the end and two thick cables attached to the rear.
- Note the orientation and consider taking a photo to aid reinstall if you will replace the part.
Access may require some maneuvering around nearby components such as the exhaust or heat shields. If you’re uncertain about exact clearance for your specific engine code (3.5L or 3.9L V6 options), consult the factory service manual for the precise layout.
Safety and maintenance considerations
Always disconnect the battery before touching electrical components, wear eye protection, and keep metal tools away from live circuits. If you’re replacing the starter, inspect related connections and the ground strap, and consider replacing associated wires or the heat shield if they show wear or damage.
Summary
For a 2007 Chevrolet Impala, the starter is located on the passenger side of the engine, mounted to the bell housing area where the engine meets the automatic transmission. It is typically accessible from underneath the vehicle or through the engine bay, depending on clearance. Identifying the cylindrical unit with its large terminal and two cables will help you locate it quickly. Safety precautions and careful documentation will make inspection or replacement straightforward.
Where is the starter located on a 2007 Chevy Impala?
The starter on a 2007 Chevy Impala is located on the driver's side of the engine, positioned underneath the engine between the radiator and the transmission. You will need to access it from below the vehicle to get to it.
This video shows the location of the starter and the bolts holding it on: 56sLast Gentleman LeftYouTube · Sep 26, 2016
- Location: Driver's side, front of the engine block, mounted to the transmission bell housing.
- Access: The easiest way to reach it is from underneath the car.
- Obstructions: You will need to remove a plastic torque converter cover to get to it, which is held on by a single $10$mm bolt. There may also be other heat shields, hoses, or a wheel to remove.
This video demonstrates how to remove the plastic cover to access the starter: 49sTRQYouTube · Jul 13, 2022
How much does it cost to replace a starter on a Chevy Impala?
The cost to replace a Chevy Impala starter typically ranges from $200 to over $1,100, with most professional repairs falling between $728 and $820. The final price depends on the year of your Impala, the cost of parts (which can range from $50 to over $350), and the complexity of the labor involved. For example, a 2018 model might cost more than a 2001 model.
Factors affecting the cost
- Year of the vehicle: Newer or more complex models can have higher costs. A 2018 Impala might cost between $958 and $1,445, while a 2001 or 2002 model could be less, from approximately $585 to $832.
- Parts cost: A new starter can cost anywhere from $80 to over $350, while remanufactured options can be cheaper.
- Labor: The labor cost depends on the specific vehicle and the difficulty of accessing the starter, which can sometimes be located under other engine components.
How to estimate your specific cost
- Determine the starter cost: Look up the price of a new or remanufactured starter for your specific Impala year and model. Online auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone can provide a range of prices.
- Estimate labor time: Get an estimate of the labor hours needed for your model. For example, a 3.5L engine in a 2008 Impala requires about 1.2 hours for replacement.
- Factor in diagnostic fees: Some repair shops may charge a diagnostic fee to confirm the starter is the problem before they begin repairs.
- Compare quotes: Get quotes from several different shops to compare costs for both parts and labor.
What causes a Chevy Impala not to start?
A Chevy Impala may not start due to a dead battery or faulty starter, which is the most common cause. Other possibilities include issues with the fuel system (like a clogged fuel filter or bad fuel pump), problems with the ignition system (such as a bad ignition switch or spark plugs), a faulty crankshaft position sensor, or an electrical issue like a bad starter relay or loose connections.
This video demonstrates how to diagnose a no-start situation on a Chevy Impala, including checking fuel pressure and other components: 56sIRVYouTube · Mar 12, 2023
Common problems and what to do
- Weak or dead battery:
- Symptoms: No sound or a single click when you turn the key.
- What to do: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tight. Try a jump start to see if it turns over. If it does, the battery may need to be replaced.
- Faulty starter:
- Symptoms: A clicking sound when you try to start, or no response at all.
- What to do: A clicking noise often means the starter solenoid is trying to work but lacks power, which can be a symptom of a failing starter motor. You may need to have it tested or replaced.
- Fuel system issues:
- Symptoms: The engine cranks but won't start.
- What to do: First, check if you're out of gas. If you have fuel, a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can prevent the engine from getting gas.
- Ignition system problems:
- Symptoms: The engine cranks but doesn't fire up.
- What to do: This can be caused by bad spark plugs, a faulty ignition switch, or a problem with the ignition coils.
- Electrical issues:
- Symptoms: No power at all, or intermittent starting problems.
- What to do: Inspect the fuses and relays, especially the starter relay. Loose or corroded wiring can also cause problems, so check all connections, including grounds.
- Faulty crankshaft position sensor:
- Symptoms: The engine cranks but won't start.
- What to do: This sensor tells the engine's computer the position of the crankshaft. If it's faulty, the computer can't properly time the fuel injection and ignition, preventing the car from starting.
You can watch this video to learn how to check the starter relay and fuses on a Chevy Impala: 54sLehewYouTube · Jul 16, 2020
Next steps
- Check the basics: Make sure you have a full tank of gas and that the battery is charged.
- Listen for clues: A single click or repeated clicking can indicate a weak battery or a faulty starter. A completely silent start points to an electrical or ignition system issue.
- Inspect connections: Check for loose or corroded battery cables.
- Use a scan tool: A scan tool can read trouble codes from the car's computer, which may point you toward the problem.
- Consult a professional: If you can't find the issue, take your Impala to a qualified mechanic for a full diagnostic test.
Where is the starter located?
The starter is located where the engine and transmission meet, near the flywheel or flex plate. Its exact position varies, but it's usually under the engine, often accessible from the bottom of the vehicle. To find it, you can look between the engine and transmission, and a helpful trick is to follow the main red cable from the positive terminal of the battery, as it leads directly to the starter.
This video shows the location of the starter on a vehicle: 46sChrisFixYouTube · Jan 13, 2017
Common locations and how to find it
- Between engine and transmission: The starter is mounted to the engine block and connects to the transmission bell housing.
- Under the engine: For most front-wheel drive vehicles, you can find it under the engine on the driver's side.
- Near the flywheel: It is always situated close to the engine's flywheel or the flex plate.
- Follow the battery cable: Trace the thick red cable that runs from the positive battery terminal; it will lead you straight to the starter.
- Check under the vehicle: You will likely need to get under the car to see it, possibly by raising it with a jack and using jack stands for safety.
You can watch this video to learn how to locate the starter by following the battery cable: 39sSell Those Flipping CarsYouTube · Sep 3, 2025
