If your Honda Accord is making a clicking noise but won’t start, you’re likely asking: How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Starter In A Honda Accord? This essential repair cost guide will give you clear answers. We’ll break down the parts and labor prices, explain what affects the total, and help you decide between a DIY fix and a professional mechanic.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Starter In A Honda Accord?
The total cost to replace a starter in a Honda Accord typically ranges from $320 to $750. For most drivers, the final bill lands around $500 to $600. This includes both the price of the part and the labor to install it.
Let’s look at the two main components of the cost.
Starter Part Cost Breakdown
The starter motor itself is the biggest expense. Its price varies widely based on quality and where you buy it.
- New OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): $200 – $450. This is a genuine Honda part, often the most reliable but also the most expensive option.
- New Aftermarket: $100 – $300. These are quality parts made by other companies. They offer a good balance of reliability and value.
- Remanufactured: $80 – $200. A used starter that’s been rebuilt to working condition. This is usually the most budget-friendly choice.
Always check the warranty. A longer warranty (like 2-3 years) can make a remanufactured unit a smart buy.
Labor Cost for Starter Replacement
Mechanic labor usually adds $120 to $300 to your bill. Most shops charge between $90 and $150 per hour. This job typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a professional.
Why the time range? It depends on your Accord’s model year and engine. Starters on 4-cylinder engines are generally easier to reach than on V6 models, which can save on labor.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional
Choosing to do it yourself can save you the labor cost. But it’s not the right choice for everyone.
- DIY Total Cost: $80 – $450 (parts only). You need basic tools, mechanical confidence, and a few hours of time.
- Professional Total Cost: $320 – $750 (parts & labor). You get a warranty on the work, save time, and avoid the hassle and potential for mistakes.
What Factors Influence the Final Price?
Several things can cause your estimate to be higher or lower than average.
1. Your Accord’s Model Year and Engine
Newer models (2018 and later) might have slightly higher part costs. V6 engines often require more labor due to tighter engine bay space. The starter might be tucked under the intake manifold, adding complexity.
2. Your Geographic Location
Shop rates in major cities and coastal areas are often higher than in rural towns. Always get a few local quotes to understand your area’s pricing.
3. The Repair Shop You Choose
Dealerships have the highest labor rates but use OEM parts. Independent mechanics offer lower rates and may use quality aftermarket parts. National chain shops fall somewhere in the middle.
4. Additional Repairs or Issues
Sometimes, a failing starter can damage the flywheel teeth. If your mechanic finds other issues during the repair, the cost will increase. A good shop will ask for your approval before doing extra work.
Step-by-Step: Diagnosing a Bad Starter
Before you spend money, be reasonably sure the starter is the problem. Here are the common symptoms.
- The “Click” Sound: You turn the key and hear a single loud click or rapid clicking, but the engine doesn’t crank.
- No Sound at All: Silence when you turn the key. This could also be a dead battery or bad connection.
- Intermittent Starting: The car starts fine sometimes and fails at others, which is a classic sign of a starter wearing out.
- Grinding Noise: A harsh grinding sound during cranking can mean the starter gear is damaged and not engaging properly.
Important: Always rule out a dead battery or poor battery connections first. These are much cheaper and easier to fix.
How to Get an Accurate Estimate
Don’t just call and ask, “How much for a starter?” Follow these steps for a precise quote.
- Provide your exact model year, engine size (e.g., 2.4L I4, 3.5L V6), and trim level.
- Ask for a breakdown: “Can you give me an estimate that separates the part cost and the labor cost?”
- Inquire about the part brand and warranty. “Is this a new, remanufactured, or OEM part, and what’s the warranty?”
- Get the quote in writing. A reputable shop will provide a detailed work order estimate.
Can You Replace a Honda Accord Starter Yourself?
If you’re handy, this is a manageable job. Here’s a simplified overview of the process.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative (black) battery cable. Wait 15 minutes for systems to power down.
- Locate the Starter: It’s on the lower side of the engine, bolted to the transmission bell housing.
- Disconnect Wires: Remove the main power wire and the smaller solenoid control wire. Label them if needed.
- Remove Mounting Bolts: Usually two or three bolts hold the starter in place. Support it as you remove the last one.
- Install the New Starter: Reverse the removal process. Tighten bolts to the specified torque (check a repair manual).
- Reconnect Battery: Double-check all connections, then reconnect the battery cable.
Tip: Take a photo with your phone before disconnecting wires. This is a helpful reference during reinstallation. Also, be prepared for tight spaces; you may need socket extensions and a swivel joint.
Tips to Save Money on This Repair
You don’t always have to pay the full quoted price. Consider these options.
- Source Your Own Part: Buy a quality aftermarket or remanufactured starter online or from an auto parts store. Ask the shop if they’ll install a customer-supplied part (many will, but may not warranty the part itself).
- Get Multiple Quotes: Call at least three different shops: a dealership, an independent mechanic, and a chain. The difference can be surprising.
- Ask About Specials: Some shops offer coupons or discounts on certain repairs, especially national chains.
- Consider a Remanufactured Unit: For an older Accord, a remanufactured starter with a solid warranty is a very cost-effective solution.
FAQs About Honda Accord Starter Replacement
How long does it take to replace a starter?
A professional mechanic can usually complete the job in under 2 hours. For a first-time DIYer, plan for 3 to 4 hours to work carefully.
What is the average starter replacement cost for a Honda Accord?
The average total cost, combining parts and labor, is between $500 and $600 for most model years.
Can a bad starter drain my battery?
Yes, it can. A faulty starter solenoid can get stuck or short internally, creating a constant power draw that drains the battery overnight.
How long should a new starter last?
A quality new or remanufactured starter should last 100,000 to 150,000 miles, often the remaining life of an older vehicle.
Is it worth replacing a starter on an old Accord?
Usually, yes. If the rest of the car is in good shape, a $500 repair is far cheaper than a new car payment. It extends the life of your reliable vehicle for many more miles.
Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice
Knowing the answer to “How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Starter In A Honda Accord?” puts you in control. You can expect to pay between $320 and $750, with the average around $500 to $600. The final price depends on your car’s engine, your location, and the parts you choose.
For most owners, paying a trusted independent mechanic for a quality aftermarket starter is the best balance of cost and convenience. If you’re on a tight budget and have some skills, doing it yourself can cut the cost in half. Either way, adressing a failing starter promptly prevents you from being stranded and keeps your dependable Honda Accord on the road for years to come.