Starter Motor Replacement Cost

Replace the motor that cranks the engine on startup.

$350 – $800

Typical labor: 1 to 3 hours

Parts vs Labor

60% / 40%

Typical share of total cost

Labor Time

1 to 3 hours

At a typical shop

Difficulty

Advanced DIY

3 of 5

Prices are national averages. Your exact cost depends on your vehicle, location, and shop. Get a free personalized AI estimate above.

Common Symptoms

Single click when turning the key

Grinding noise when starting

Engine cranks slowly or not at all

Have to tap the starter to get it to work

The starter is a powerful electric motor that spins your engine to start it. It engages briefly each time you start the car.

When it fully fails, you're stranded. Early warning signs let you replace it on your schedule, not the side of the road.

Confirm the battery is good before replacing the starter, weak batteries cause the same symptoms
Remanufactured starters are reliable and cost 40 to 60 percent less than new

Shops commonly pair starter motor replacement with these jobs to save on overlapping labor:

Check if your shop quote is fair before paying. Get a free line-by-line AI estimate for your year, make, and model in under a minute, then compare.

How do I know if it's the starter or the battery?

Get the battery tested first, it's free at any parts store. If the battery is good, it's likely the starter or solenoid.