Expect to pay roughly $50–$260 for the starter itself, with installation bringing the total to about $170–$450 depending on the engine and labor rates.
For the 2012 Charger, prices vary by engine options (3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L Hemi, or the SRT8’s 6.1L Hemi) and by whether you purchase a remanufactured, aftermarket, or OEM unit, as well as who performs the installation. This article outlines typical price ranges, what drives the cost, and where to shop.
Starter price options by source
Prices differ based on engine compatibility, part type, and supplier. The following ranges cover common scenarios for a 2012 Charger.
- Remanufactured/rebuilt starter: $50–$120
- New aftermarket starter (non-OEM): $60–$160
- New OEM Mopar starter: $120–$260
- Dealer-installed OEM starter (parts): $180–$350
Prices can vary by region and supplier, and the exact part number should match your Charger’s engine (3.6L, 5.7L, or 6.1L) to ensure proper fit and performance.
Labor costs and total installed price
Labor to swap a starter is usually a significant portion of the total installed cost and depends on vehicle access and local shop rates.
- Typical job time: 1–2 hours
- Average labor rate: $70–$150 per hour, depending on location
- Estimated total installed price: $170–$450 (parts + labor)
Note that more difficult access areas or additional issues discovered during replacement can raise both labor time and cost.
Engine variants and compatibility
The 2012 Dodge Charger could be equipped with multiple engines, influencing starter size and price. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the most common base engine, with the 5.7L Hemi and the 6.1L Hemi (SRT8) as higher-performance options. Always verify the exact engine code and part number before purchasing to ensure compatibility and correct electrical specifications.
Tips to save money
Shopping strategies can trim costs without sacrificing reliability. Consider these approaches:
- Compare remanufactured vs. new OEM parts across reputable retailers.
- Check multiple suppliers (including reputable online parts sellers) for best pricing.
- Ask for a warranty on remanufactured starters (often 1 year or more).
- Consider a used starter from a salvage yard only if it’s tested and comes with some warranty.
Always ensure the part matches your engine and has a proper warranty to avoid repeat labor costs.
Where to buy
Several sources typically offer starter options for a 2012 Charger. Prices and availability can vary by region and stock.
- Auto parts chains (e.g., AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly)
- Online retailers and aggregators (e.g., RockAuto)
- OEM Mopar parts from a dealership or authorized Mopar catalog
- Salvage yards for used starters (check compatibility and warranty)
When buying, confirm the exact part number for your engine, and verify return policies and warranties in case the unit isn’t compatible or fails early.
Summary
For a 2012 Dodge Charger, the starter cost hinges on engine type and part source. Expect a broad range: $50–$260 for the starter itself, with labor typically adding $70–$150 per hour and bringing the total installed price to roughly $170–$450, though higher-end scenarios or difficult installations can push the cost higher. Always confirm engine code and part compatibility, shop around for quotes, and weigh remanufactured versus OEM options along with warranties.
How to know if a Dodge Charger starter is bad?
Common Signs of a Failing Dodge Starter Motor
In some cases, you might hear a grinding or whining sound, which could indicate that the starter motor is having trouble engaging the flywheel properly. Another sign to look for is intermittent starting. If your Dodge vehicle starts without issue one moment.
How much is a starter for a 2012 Dodge Charger?
The average price for a 2012 Dodge Charger Starter Part at Advance Auto Parts is around $196.10, with a range that starts at $141.99 and goes up to $349.99.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a starter?
Some damaged starter components are straightforward to rebuild, while others require significant components and time. For major rebuild projects, it may be more cost-effective to replace your starter completely.
How much to replace a Dodge Charger starter?
The average cost for a Dodge Charger Starter Replacement is between $406 and $599. Labor costs are estimated between $135 and $198 while parts are priced between $271 and $402. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.