
You can sell a used car starter in several places, with online marketplaces generally offering the widest audience and highest potential profit. Your best options include eBay for its specialized automotive parts community, Facebook Marketplace for quick local sales, and dedicated auto parts sites like Car-Part.com. For immediate cash with less hassle, local auto parts stores and salvage yards are viable alternatives, though they will offer a lower price.
Before listing, it's crucial to know what you have. Find the part number on the starter itself, which is essential for a correct listing. Clean the starter and take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles. A simple test with a multimeter to confirm it's not completely dead can significantly increase its value. Mentioning the vehicle's make, model, year, and engine size is non-negotiable for a successful sale.
The price you can get varies significantly based on the starter's condition (tested working, for parts, or rebuilt) and the vehicle it fits. High-demand models from popular brands like Ford or Toyota will fetch more. Here’s a rough price guide based on recent online sales for common starters:
| Vehicle Application (Example) | Condition: Tested Working | Condition: For Parts/Non-Working | Condition: Remanufactured (Core Value) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 Honda Civic 1.8L | $80 - $150 | $15 - $40 | $30 - $50 |
| 2018 Ford F-150 5.0L | $100 - $200 | $20 - $50 | $40 - $70 |
| 2010 Toyota Camry 2.5L | $70 - $130 | $15 - $35 | $25 - $45 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 4.8L | $90 - $170 | $20 - $45 | $35 - $60 |
For the best return, invest time in creating a detailed online listing. If you need cash quickly and don't want to deal with buyers, a local junkyard or auto parts store that offers a core exchange program is your most straightforward path.

I always use Facebook Marketplace. Just take a couple of good pictures of the starter, find the part number on it, and list it for local pickup. I set the price by searching for what others are asking. I've sold a few this way—it's fast, free, and you're dealing with people right in your town who need the part for their project car. Be ready to answer questions and maybe negotiate a little.

From a more technical angle, your starter's value is its core charge. Many parts stores will give you a small refund, a "core," when you bring your old one in after buying a rebuilt unit. This is the easiest way to dispose of it and get a few bucks. Alternatively, a pick-and-pull salvage yard will buy it outright. They won't pay much, maybe $20 to $40, but it's instant cash with zero hassle if your primary goal is just to get it out of your garage.


