Starter Motor

Starter Motor Repair.

If your vehicle's got a faulty or failing starter motor, Auto Hero can help!

Here, you can look for local workshops that offer a starter motor repair service. Alternatively, if you're dealing with a total starter motor failure, then they can provide a new starter motor as cost effectively as possible.

Don't worry if you're not 100% sure about what the problem is. When you get quotes from Auto Hero, you'll be able to talk to an expert mechanic who'll help you diagnose the problem and offer any advice you need.

How much does a starter motor replacement cost?

The cost of a replacement starter motor depends a lot on the vehicle you drive. For most cars, you can expect a cost of between $350 to $600 - but you may find it's more if you have a large or luxury vehicle.

In some cases, it's possible to carry out repairs on a faulty starter motor. Although this isn't always cost-effective, if it's possible, it will keep you repair costs down. Alternatively, some workshops can provide reconditioned starter motors that come with a guarantee - so you can be confident it'll keep you motoring without a huge bill.

What is a starter motor?

A starter motor is an electric motor that helps to start an internal combustion engine. It does this by using electric power force the engine to begin its internal movements. With just a small amount of movement within the engine, the fuel injection process can begin and the engine will come to life.

The starter motor itself uses electromagnets to get the starter rotating and create movement. This movement is used to turn the vehicle's flywheel - which in turn rotates the crank and the moves the pistons.

When a starter motor fails, it's usually a problem with either a solenoid that makes up part of the electromagnet or one of the 'brushes' - one of the electrical contacts which conducts current between the stationary wires in the motor and the moving parts. 

Signs you need to have your starter motor checked

There are some common signs that it may be time to have a new starter motor fitted. They include:

A clicking noise when you turn the ignition key

If you hear a clicking noise and no attempt to start the engine when you turn the key or press the 'start' button, it's likely that an internal starter solenoid is hampering the starter's operation.

A grinding noise after ignition

 If the starter motor starts the engine but makes a grinding noise for a moment afterwards, it could be an indication that the small gear used to move the flywheel is not lining up properly.

The starter doesn't successfully start the engine

If the starter simply doesn't start the engine, it could be a sign that the electric motor is worn and not able to deliver enough power.

The starter works but doesn't engage the flywheel

If the starter seems to be working correctly but it does not engage the flywheel, it's likely that the gears are not lining up correctly or are overly worn.

What does a starter motor replacement involve? 

When you use a workshop or mobile mechanic to fix your starter motor issues, the job will usually involve:

Battery disconnection

Since electric motors require power from the battery, this is disconnected to avoid shocks or electrical issues.

Lifting the car

The car is lifted - either on jack stands or a lift to access the underneath of the engine bay

Disconnect starter motor

The wiring connected to the starter motor is disconnected

Remove old starter motor

The mounting bolts that hold the starter motor in place are removed and the damaged starter motor is removed from the engine bay

Replace starter motor 

A new starter motor is fitted - with the mounting bolts tightened to the manufacturers recommended torque settings

Refit wiring

The wiring to the starter motor is reconnected

Reconnect battery cables

The battery cables are reconnected and the car's starting system can be tested

We can find a starter motor replacement for any vehicle

Our partner mechanics can help you deal with a failing starter motor, no matter what kind of vehicle you have:

• Passenger car
• Diesel vehicles
• SUVs
• 4x4s
• Trucks
• Vans and commercial vehicles
• and many more

Starter motors for all makes and models

We can connect you with a huge range of service centres that provide starter motor repair services - from Toyota, Ford and Holden, through to European specialists who work with vehicles from VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, and more.

What's more, since every Auto Hero service partner works with approved diagnostic equipment, you can be confident you'll get the same standard of service you would at a main dealer - but without the price tag.

Getting quotes for replacement starter motors local to you.

If you're facing starter motor problems, we'll get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Just give us a few details about your car and your location, then we'll find quotes from all our partner workshops offering car repairs in your area. 

Then, you're free to look through them to find the one that's right for you. Our online booking service then makes it quick and easy to find an appointment that's right for you.