how much to replace a starter in a car

[IkerAnn]

The average cost to replace a car starter is between $400 and $800, including parts and labor. However, the final price can range from as low as $250 for some economy cars to over $1,200 for high-performance or luxury vehicles. The cost is primarily split between the starter part itself ($150-$400) and labor ($150-$400), which typically takes a mechanic 2-3 hours.

The wide price range depends heavily on your vehicle's make, model, and the labor rates in your area. For example, replacing a starter on a front-wheel-drive V6 engine often requires more disassembly, increasing labor time and cost.

Vehicle Type	Average Parts Cost	Average Labor Cost	Total Estimated Cost Range
Economy Car (e.g., Honda Civic)	$150 - $250	$100 - $200	$250 - $450
Common SUV/Truck (e.g., Ford F-150)	$200 - $350	$150 - $300	$350 - $650
Luxury Sedan (e.g., BMW 5 Series)	$350 - $600	$200 - $400	$550 - $1,000
Performance Car (e.g., Porsche 911)	$500 - $900+	$300 - $500+	$800 - $1,400+

Before committing to a repair, it's wise to get a few quotes from trusted local mechanics. Independent shops are often more affordable than dealerships. A proper diagnosis is also crucial, as a faulty battery, alternator, or electrical connection can mimic starter failure symptoms. Investing in a high-quality replacement part, preferably a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or reputable aftermarket unit, can prevent premature failure and save money in the long run.

[MacAurora]

Honestly, you're probably looking at around five hundred bucks, give or take. It really depends on your car. My old Toyota Camry was about $400 at my local guy's shop. But my neighbor's BMW cost him over a grand at the dealer. Always call a few independent mechanics for quotes—it can save you a couple hundred dollars easily. Just make sure they confirm it's actually the starter and not just a dead battery before they do any work.

[VonAiden]

As a mechanic, I see this daily. The bill boils down to part cost and labor. A starter for a common car might be $200, while a luxury model's can be $600. Labor is the big variable. If it's easily accessible, maybe 1.5 hours. If it's buried under the intake manifold, that's 3+ hours of work. My advice? Skip the dealership for this repair. A qualified independent shop can do the same job for significantly less. Always ask for a detailed estimate upfront.

[EvangelineDella]

Think of it as an investment in your car's reliability. While the $400-$800 price tag stings, a new starter restores peace of mind. To manage the cost, consider a remanufactured starter from a reputable brand; it can be a reliable, budget-friendly option. Also, ask your mechanic if they offer a warranty on both the part and labor—a good warranty is a sign of confidence in their work. This isn't a repair you want to cheap out on, as a low-quality part can fail quickly.