How to Replace a Car Engine Starter

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

New starter motor
Socket wrench set
Wrench
Screwdriver
Safety glasses
Gloves

Safety First

Before you begin working on your car, be sure to take the following safety precautions:

Park your car on a flat, level surface.
Set the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Wear safety glasses and gloves.

Step 1: Locate the Starter Motor

The starter motor is typically located on the side of the engine, near the flywheel. It is a cylindrical-shaped component with two terminals: one large terminal for the positive battery cable and one smaller terminal for the ignition switch wire.

Step 2: Disconnect the Battery Cable

Use a wrench to loosen the nut securing the positive battery cable to the starter motor. Be careful not to touch the terminals with your bare hands.

Step 3: Disconnect the Ignition Switch Wire

Use a screwdriver to disconnect the ignition switch wire from the starter motor. The wire is typically held in place by a small clip.

Step 4: Remove the Starter Mounting Bolts

Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that secure the starter motor to the engine. There are typically two or three bolts.

Step 5: Remove the Starter Motor

Once the mounting bolts are removed, you can carefully pull the starter motor away from the engine. Be careful not to damage the starter motor or the surrounding components.

Step 6: Install the New Starter Motor

Position the new starter motor in place and secure it with the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts until they are snug.

Step 7: Reconnect the Ignition Switch Wire

Use a screwdriver to connect the ignition switch wire to the starter motor. Secure the wire with the small clip.

Step 8: Reconnect the Battery Cable

Use a wrench to tighten the nut securing the positive battery cable to the starter motor.

Step 9: Test the Starter Motor

Reconnect the negative battery terminal and start your car. The starter motor should engage and start the engine. If the starter motor does not engage, check the connections and make sure that the new starter motor is properly installed.