Where is the starter located on a 2008 Impala?

The starter on a 2008 Chevrolet Impala is mounted to the engine block near the bellhousing on the passenger (right) side of the engine. It is typically accessible from beneath the vehicle or through the right front wheel well area, depending on the engine and trim level.

Core location in the engine bay

Understanding the starter’s placement helps DIYers and technicians know where to look before lifting the hood or crawling under the car. On most 2008 Impalas equipped with GM’s front-wheel-drive setup, the starter sits where the engine meets the transmission, on the passenger side of the engine compartment.

• The starter is bolted to the engine block where the bellhousing connects to the transmission.


• Its cylindrical body is usually visible from beneath the car or through the right front wheel well with the splash shield removed.


• Two electrical connections—one large power lead and one smaller solenoid connection—are typical indicators of the starter.

Knowing these cues helps you identify the starter quickly without unnecessary disassembly.

How to access the starter safely

Access can vary by engine option and whether you have the factory undercar shield in place. The guidance below covers common, safe approaches used by enthusiasts and technicians.

• Safety first: disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent sparks or shorts during inspection or removal.


• Wear eye protection and use proper jack stands if you need to go under the vehicle; never rely on a jack alone.


• In many setups, you’ll gain access by removing the front splash shield or inner fender liner on the passenger side, which exposes the lower portion of the starter and bellhousing area.


• Inspect from above if possible: some Impala configurations allow visual access to the upper mounting bolts from the engine bay, depending on hood clearance and engine orientation.

These steps help ensure you can locate and assess the starter while maintaining safety and minimizing unnecessary disassembly.

Engine variations and layout notes

While the general location remains consistent, slight differences can occur between the 3.5L and 3.9L V6 configurations used in various 2008 Impala trims. In all cases, the starter remains mounted to the bellhousing on the passenger side and is typically encountered near the transmission interface.

In summary, for a 2008 Impala, look on the passenger side of the engine at the bellhousing, with access often gained from beneath the car or through the right front wheel well. Disconnect the battery, identify the two electrical connections and mounting bolts, and proceed carefully with the appropriate tools. If in doubt, consult the vehicle’s service manual or a qualified mechanic for the exact engine variant and access method.

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

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

How to remove 2008 Chevy Impala starter?

Instructions

1. Remove the plastic inspection cover by unbolting the three 10mm bolts.
2. Loosen the two 15mm bolts that hold the starter to the engine.
3. Remove the nut that holds down the skinny wire to the solenoid using an 8mm socket.
4. Remove the nut that holds the large wire to the solenoid using a 13mm socket.

How much does it cost to replace a starter on a 2008 Chevy Impala?

The total cost to replace a 2008 Chevy Impala starter typically ranges from $200 to $800 at a repair shop, which includes parts and labor. The cost for just the part can range from approximately $65 to over $200, depending on the brand and whether it's a new or rebuilt unit. DIY replacement will significantly reduce the cost by eliminating labor fees, as the starter is generally an accessible part. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts:
  • New: Prices can start around $65.99 and go up to $200 or more for a new starter, depending on the brand. 
  • Rebuilt: Rebuilt starters are generally cheaper than new ones but may not be as reliable for long-term use. 
• Labor:
  • Professional labor typically adds $150 to $250 to the total cost, with many shops billing a minimum of two hours for the job. 
• Total:
  • The final price can range from $200 to over $800, depending on the cost of the part and the labor rates in your area. 
  • DIY: Replacing the starter yourself can save you the labor cost, but you should only do this if you have the necessary tools and mechanical knowledge, as it is generally a straightforward job.