Having trouble starting your car?
It could be a faulty starter relay, which, left unchecked, can fail and lead to costly repairs.
Bottom line: You need to get a replacement soon!
But don’t worry about the expense. We’ll break down the starter relay replacement cost, explain how it works, and highlight a few warning signs.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Starter Relay Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Starter Relay?
- 4 Signs You Need a Starter Relay Replacement
- How Does the Starter Relay Work?
- How Long Does a Starter Relay Last?
How Much Does a Starter Relay Replacement Cost?
Let’s break down how much you’ll need to shell out for starter relay maintenance services:
A. Range
Replacing a bad starter relay can cost between $160 and $230.
This includes:
- Labor costs: $150 to $200
- Cost of parts: $10 to $30
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Several factors can affect the cost of a starter relay replacement, including:
- Vehicle make and model: In most vehicles, the starter relay sits in the main fuse box under the hood in a large black box. However, this can change depending on vehicle make and model. Sometimes, it’s located near the battery or starter motor.
- Quality of the part: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts usually cost more whereas aftermarket parts are more affordable.
- Additional repairs: The total cost of repairs will increase if a faulty relay has damaged other engine components, such as the starter motor, starter circuit, and drive flywheel.
Is It Worth Replacing the Starter Relay?
Absolutely!
The starter relay is a crucial part of your vehicle’s ignition system. A bad relay will likely prevent your car from starting, leaving you stranded. A bad relay can also lead to intermittent starting and other electrical issues.
4 Signs You Need a Starter Relay Replacement
Here are a few telltale signs you might have a failing starter relay:
- Vehicle won’t start: If the relay is damaged or worn, it can’t signal the battery to release a jolt of energy to the starter motor, leading to a no-start situation.
- The starter relay makes a clicking sound: A damaged starter relay may only send part of the signal. As a result, the failed relay may try to switch between “ON” and “OFF” positions repeatedly, causing a clicking sound.
- Intermittent starting issues: Over time, dirt, debris, and corrosion can build up and block the current flow. When this happens, the starter relay can’t reliably send power to the starter, causing the engine to start inconsistently.
- Starter motor stays engaged: The starter motor might keep cranking the engine even after it’s started, or you might still hear it running after you release the ignition key. This generally means the starter relay is stuck in the “ON” position.
How Does the Starter Relay Work?
The starter relay is the switch between the starter motor and the vehicle’s battery power. It controls the flow of high current needed to power the starter motor.
The ignition switch or start button activates the relay by sending a low-current signal, enabling it to close the circuit and allow high-current from the battery power to reach the starter motor.
The relay also protects the ignition switch from high electrical loads by handling the high current for the starter.
How Long Does a Starter Relay Last?
Starter relays are generally reliable, lasting between 30,000 and 60,000 miles or 4 and 8 years. However, they can fail at any point, usually due to mechanical failure.
That said, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way. Gently cleaning the starter relays with some isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab can greatly prolong their lifespan. Just ensure to disconnect the negative battery cable first.
Note: Starter motor failure tends to be more common than a faulty relay and can present many of the same symptoms.
Get Easy Starter Relay Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
The starter relay is a vital electrical component of your vehicle’s ignition system. Without it, your car will suffer from intermittent starting or fail to start altogether.
Since it’s best to avoid driving, contact AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution available seven days a week. Our mobile mechanics can fix your old relay and perform related repairs like a starter replacement if needed.
Book an appointment, and we’ll have your car running like new.