I have a Acura TL 05 with only 43000 miles, my starter motor is starting to give me problems. I went to Acura of westchester and they quoted me $551 for a new starter motor and labor. I need some advice, I see starter motors online for a decent price and I can make someone install it for me. What should I do ?

 

Not a difficult job, just need to remove battery and tray, but write down your codes first, unless someone has a charger to goes into the OBDII plug. I have one and it has been worth every penny, but on to the problem.

Here's a couple of online OEM prices:
Starter, tl, manual trans 05-06 $256.75 $192.56
Starter, tl, auto trans 05-06 $342.33 $256.75

Rock Auto has remanufactured starters for 5 spd/AT $130.00, or Bosch AT for $190.

AZ has both for $160.00

Remanufactured starters, depending on the supplier leave a lot to be desired. I've seen remanufactured starters that look like new, but when opened up they weren't even cleaned out as the filings were still loaded on the inside. At least at AZ they have a lifetime warranty, but annoying if they need to be replaced often.

Another thought, if you can be without your car for a day or so, remove the starter and have it rebuilt if there is a shop near you, but get a price first.

Check car-part.com for used starters in your area $50/$80. I went this rout on the daughter's Maxima and it has been fine for the last 3 years, and you can keep your old starter.

I guess it's your choice.

 

why not open it up and replace the contacts. that is usually all that is wrong with a starter. i do it on toyotas for under $20. it is the simplest repair you can do.

 

What type of starter problems are you having? Could it be the battery or other components? Do the lights dim when trying to start the engine? If so this would be an indication that the battery is weak. I would hope Acura ruled out bad connections at the battery, wiring, key switch, starter relay intermittent (switch the relay with another one) etc... and the battery. Make sure no corrosion is present at the + & - terminals and the connections are clean and tight.

If it is the starter (seems strange at the low mileage you have)...do what is suggested above by "Turbonut", save some money and have it replaced anywhere, but not the dealer.

 

Buy this part at honda, its the same thing but cheaper there. Did mine last year.

That quote is insane! I could do it for way way less...

 

i suggest you fix it yourself dude....dealers can be a pain in the ass with their prices

someone told me i had the same problem but i dont know to believe them. my car has been doing this to me, i go turn the switch and i have power everywhere but the car wont start...i take out the key and turn it 180 degrees and it magically turns on SOMETIMES...