A car starter replacement costs roughly $400 to $1,200 total, with parts ($100-$400+) and labor ($100-$300+ for accessible, more for complex) varying by vehicle, but a remote starter system adds $150-$650+ for the unit and installation, depending on features like one-way, two-way, or smartphone control, plus potential extra key fob costs for modern cars.
(Updated in 2025) Based on a brief survey of remote start dealers, a basic, short-range remote starter installed on a non-luxury vehicle will range from $349.99-$449.99.
On average, the full cost to replace a bad car starter ranges between $700 and $1,200, depending on factors such as your make and model and the number of labor hours needed to do the job.
The starter motor replacement price is dependent on the make and model of your car, but you can expect to fork out around $350 to $1,000 depending on make on model of the vehicle to get it sorted.
The average cost for a Starter Replacement is between $531 and $773. Labor costs are estimated between $175 and $257 while parts are priced between $356 and $516. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
Now, would you drive with a faulty starter? The safest option would be to call your mechanic to fix the issue. It's not safe to drive long distances or with multiple stops with a bad starter because to get your car's engine running, you need a relay process that literally starts with the starter.
Starter motor costs in the UK - The rundown
The cost of replacing a starter motor in the UK can range from £150-£400 depending on the make and model of the car. Before we jump into FAQs and information about starter motor repairs, we'll cover the common costs per vehicle brand to help you budget for your repair.
Rebuilding a starter is generally cheaper than replacing it, but replacing is more reliable and often recommended for long-term use.
Symptoms of a bad starter include a single loud click, rapid clicking, slow cranking, grinding noises, or nothing at all when you turn the key, even if lights work; this often happens intermittently, especially when the engine is warm, and can be distinguished from a weak battery if the car still won't start after a jump-start. A burning smell or smoke from under the hood can also occur, and sometimes you might hear the starter spinning (whirring/whizzing) without the engine turning over.
With RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage. They can do a starter motor repair on your driveway, so you don't even need to leave the house.
The average lifespan of a starter motor is 100,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on the design. High-horsepower engines put more strain on the starter due to high compression, so this is where gear-reduction starters shine.
The average cost for a Toyota Corolla Starter Replacement is between $424 and $567. Labor costs are estimated between $101 and $148 while parts are priced between $323 and $419.
Faulty Starter Motor
Repeated attempts to start the engine exacerbate the problem. Also, if the starter solenoid has a short, there could be a constant drain on the battery whether the engine is running or not.
Best Buy provides free basic installation only when you buy the remote starter from them. Depending on your car, you may have to buy additional parts too.
Before purchasing a remote start system, check if your vehicle supports it. Some older cars with manual transmissions, diesel engines, or complex anti-theft systems may require specialized installations or be incompatible altogether. Always consult the manufacturer to figure out compatibility before purchasing.
The installation of remote car starters takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the vehicle model and the complexity of the system. If the system requires components like a bypass module, the installation may take longer. Ensure to follow the manual and take your time to ensure everything is installed correctly.
How and why do starter motors fail?
A definitive way to test the starter motor is by performing a bench test. This requires removing the starter from the vehicle and using jumper cables to connect it directly to a battery. This test can confirm whether the starter motor itself is functional or needs replacing.
Battery corrosion: Can mimic starter symptoms if ignored. Damaged or worn-out parts in the starter system: If you have aged or worn parts in your starter system that fail, this can affect your vehicle's ability to start. Oil leaks: Leaky oil can soak and ruin the starter.
Moreover, continuing to drive with a compromised starter not only risks your safety but also jeopardizes the health of your engine. Each attempt to start your car with a failing starter strains other engine components, escalating the potential for additional damage.
You can replace a starter yourself if you're comfortable working with vehicle electrical systems and have the right tools, though a professional may be needed for more complex installations.
Vehicle starters have lifespans of between 50,000 miles and 150,000 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.
What should I do if the starter motor fails while I am away from home? If the starter motor fails while you are away from home, you can contact a mobile mechanic or roadside assistance service. They can help diagnose the issue and perform temporary repairs or arrange towing if necessary.
A starter replacement typically costs $400 to $800 on average, but can range from $150 to over $1,200, depending on your vehicle, labor costs, and whether you choose new, remanufactured, or used parts, with luxury cars or those with hard-to-reach starters costing more. Expect parts to be $80-$350+, with labor adding $100-$250+ for easier jobs and significantly more for complex placements.