Can you rebuild a starter?
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Yes, rebuilding a starter is a feasible option, as most repairs can be done with common hand tools and are relatively straightforward, allowing you to replace faulty parts and get your vehicle running again. By rebuilding your starter, you can save money compared to buying a brand-new one, and with the right tools and knowledge, you can diagnose and fix the issue efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
- What causes a starter to go bad?: Normal wear and tear from extended exposure to higher temperatures can cause the starter to go bad, with the flywheel and pinion gear’s teeth wearing out over time.
- How long does it take to rebuild a starter?: The average amount of time it takes to completely replace a starter is generally between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the make, model, and year of your vehicle.
- How much does it cost to rebuild a starter?: A brand-new starter can range from $80 to over $350, while rebuilding or replacing it can cost between $150 and over $1,100, depending on the particular issue and vehicle specifications.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
- What can be mistaken for a bad starter?: A weak or dead battery, or even faulty battery cables, could be causing the problems with your car, not the starter.
- Can a bad starter still start?: Although a bad starter can still start your vehicle, it will continue to draw too much power and drain the battery.
- How do you know if your starter is worn out?: Signs of a bad starter include whirring, grinding, or clicking sounds when trying to start your car, a loud single click with no engine crank, or the instrument cluster, headlights, and radio working normally but the engine not starting.
Repair and Replacement
- Can you fix a starter motor yourself?: You could attempt to repair or replace the starter motor yourself, but it’s essential to use the right tools and wear appropriate safety gear.
- Is replacing a starter motor a big job?: On average, it takes a mechanic around 2 hours to replace a starter motor, depending on the accessibility of the starter and the complexity of the job.
- What’s more expensive, starter or alternator?: The replacement cost of a starter is typically minimal, while an alternator can cost anywhere from $180 to over $1,000, depending on the vehicle model.
Alternatives and Considerations
- Is it better to replace or rebuild a starter?: Although a remanufactured starter may be just as good as a new one, it has the drawback of requiring your old starter, and rebuilding can be an affordable alternative to buying new.
- Can a bad starter drain a battery?: A bad starter will draw a charge from the battery, and if it’s drawing too much, it’s a clear indicator that it has failed.
- Can you drive with a bad starter?: Driving with a faulty starter motor is risky and can lead to unpredictable situations, such as the engine behaving erratically or refusing to start.
Testing and Diagnosis
- Can AutoZone test a starter?: Yes, AutoZone can test your starter for free, and it only takes 5 minutes to determine if you need a replacement.
- How do I know if it’s the starter or alternator?: If your car doesn’t start, the starter may be the problem, while if it starts but dies when unhooking the jumper cables, the alternator likely isn’t providing the necessary current.
- Can you jump a car with a bad starter or alternator?: You can jumpstart a car with a bad alternator, but it’s essential to replace the alternator as soon as possible to avoid further damage.