A starter for a 2019 Nissan Altima typically costs between $120 and $350 for the part itself, with OEM/new units often in the $250–$500 range. Installed price, including labor, generally runs from about $300 to $800 depending on location and shop.
What determines the price
Price variation hinges on the part type (used, remanufactured, or new OEM), where you buy, whether a core charge applies, and local labor rates. The Altima’s 2019 lineup includes both a 2.5-liter engine and a VC-Turbo 2.0-liter option, which can influence part availability and price slightly.
Starter part options and price ranges
Prices depend on whether you buy a new OEM part, a remanufactured aftermarket unit, or a used starter from a salvage yard. Here are typical ranges you can expect at major retailers and dealers.
- New OEM/Nissan starter: commonly $250–$500; often higher at a Nissan dealer; typically covered by a 1–3 year warranty; core charge may apply if you don’t return your old unit.
- Aftermarket remanufactured starter: approximately $120–$250; widely available from brands sold by AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, and similar outlets; usually includes a warranty; core charge may apply.
- Used or rebuilt starter (salvage/third-party): roughly $40–$150; lowest upfront cost but greater risk of unreliability; verify compatibility and test before installation.
Note: Core charges are common on remanufactured and some new aftermarket starters. The core charge is refunded when you return your old starter; check the exact terms at the point of sale.
In summary, your best choice depends on budget, reliability needs, and how you plan to handle core deposits. OEM new parts carry the strongest reliability and warranty, while remanufactured and used options offer significant savings with trade-offs.
Labor and total installed cost
Labor time for replacing a starter on a 2019 Altima typically ranges from about 1 to 2 hours, depending on engine variant, access, and the shop’s layout. Local labor rates usually fall in the $75–$150 per hour range, which can push total installed costs higher in urban areas or at dealership service centers.
- Access and engine layout: the starter sits near the transmission, and some engine models are more labor-intensive to reach.
- Shop rate: dealerships tend to be more expensive than independent shops.
- Additional parts: many technicians suggest replacing the battery if it’s weak, along with inspecting associated wiring or solenoids, which can add to the cost.
To avoid surprises, obtain a written estimate that separates parts and labor and asks about any recommended ancillary services.
Do-it-yourself vs professional installation
Replacing a starter is a feasible DIY project for someone with basic automotive tools and experience, but it requires careful safety precautions and knowledge of your vehicle’s electrical system. If you’re comfortable with disconnecting the battery, removing components that obstruct access, and properly torquing bolts, doing it yourself can save on labor costs.
Do-it-yourself considerations
Before starting, gather a clean work area, a service manual or correct torque specs, and the right replacement part. Ensure you depressurize and disconnect the battery before beginning, and plan for a potential reprogramming step if your Altima’s anti-theft or immobilizer system is affected.
If you’re unsure, obtaining quotes from a few shops can help you compare total installed costs and warranty terms before making a decision.
Where to buy and how to verify compatibility
To avoid buying the wrong starter, verify your Altima’s engine code (2.5L I4 or 2.0L VC-Turbo) and confirm the part number matches your vehicle’s configuration. Compare retailers and warranty terms, and check whether a core charge applies.
- Dealership service departments or Nissan-authorized parts counters
- Automotive parts retailers such as AutoZone, O'Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts
- Online retailers and catalogs, including RockAuto and manufacturer-direct sites
Always confirm compatibility with your exact VIN or engine code, and review return policies in case the part isn’t a perfect match after installation.
Summary
For a 2019 Nissan Altima, starter part costs range from about $120 to $350 for aftermarket or remanufactured units and $250 to $500 for new OEM units. Installed prices typically fall around $300 to $800 depending on labor rates and location. Weigh the trade-offs between price, reliability, and warranty, and consider whether DIY installation is appropriate for your skill level. Always verify engine type compatibility and be aware of core charges and potential add-ons when budgeting for the replacement.