The cost of a new starter
can range anywhere from $80 to $350—but that’s only for the part. You’ll also need to consider the cost of labor, which can vary from $150 to as much as $1,000. That puts the cost of parts and labor in a wide range, from $230 to over $1,000. For most vehicles, however, the complete cost for a starter replacement (including both parts and labor) is around $500. So, it sounds like your mechanic is charging you the average fee for this service.
Keep in mind: The variation in labor costs is largely due to the nature of the service. To replace a car starter, the old part must be completely removed from the engine compartment, which can trigger substantial labor fees.
In some vehicles, the starter is more easily accessible, and the service can be completed relatively quickly. Other vehicles, however, are more complex and require more time
to access and fix. The bottom line: Your final cost for a car starter replacement will ultimately depend on the complexity of the repair, which is partially determined by your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
Pro tip: You may want to budget an extra $100-$200 on top of that fee. If your mechanic discovers additional problems—like a ring gear or crankshaft issue—you could wind up paying more than anticipated.