Typically, replacing the starter on a 1998 Honda Accord costs about $250 to $550 in total, depending on parts choices, labor rates, and location. This article breaks down the price ranges, factors that affect the total, and practical ways to save.
What influences the overall cost
Costs come from the price of the starter itself, the cost of labor, and optional services or fees. Location and shop policies can also sway the final number. The breakdown below assumes a standard replacement on a mid-1990s Accord with a conventional starter.
Breakdown of typical price ranges by category:
- Starter (remanufactured): typically $70–$150
- Starter (new aftermarket): typically $100–$250
- Starter (new OEM/Honda): typically $180–$350
- Labor: usually 1–2 hours; shop rates commonly $75–$150 per hour; total labor roughly $75–$300
- Additional costs: tax, core charge for remanufactured units, disposal fees, diagnostic charges if the root cause is unclear
Conclusion: The total price commonly lands in the $250–$550 range. DIY parts purchases can reduce the cost to parts only, while dealer pricing tends to be higher due to parts and service margins.
Factors that can push the price higher or lower
Several factors can influence the final bill, including where you buy the part, the level of service, and local labor rates. Here are common variables to consider:
- Part source: remanufactured vs. new aftermarket vs. OEM/Honda
- Labor time: accessibility of the starter in your specific engine bay can affect hours billed
- Regional labor rates: urban vs. rural shops and warranty-backed dealer services
- Additional services: diagnostic fees if the starter issue is not confirmed, core charges, disposal fees
- Your part submission: whether you supply the part or the shop provides it
Conclusion: Prices vary widely by region, part type, and shop policies — always request a written estimate with parts and labor itemized before approving work.
DIY vs professional replacement
You can save money by doing the replacement yourself, but it requires the right tools, workspace, and comfort with automotive electrical work. Here are the trade-offs:
- DIY: potential savings from eliminating labor charges; you control part choice
- DIY: risk of improper installation, possible damage to wiring or the battery, and more time spent
- Professional: warranty on parts and labor; proper torque and safety procedures; faster turnaround
- Professional: higher upfront cost due to labor and shop overhead
Conclusion: If you’re confident with basic auto electrical work, DIY could save roughly $100–$300 depending on your part choices. If not, a reputable shop provides convenience and a warranty.
Tips for saving money on a starter replacement
Small steps can lower costs without compromising safety or reliability:
- Compare remanufactured versus new aftermarket versus OEM parts from multiple suppliers
- Ask for a written estimate with a clear parts-and-labor breakdown
- Inquire about core exchange discounts on remanufactured starters
- Ensure the diagnosis confirms a faulty starter rather than battery, alternator, or ignition issues
Conclusion: Shopping around for parts and securing a detailed estimate can prevent surprises and may save a few hundred dollars, especially if the problem isn’t the starter.
Replacement steps (high level)
Below is a high-level overview of the typical steps involved in replacing a starter on a 1998 Honda Accord. A professional shop will perform these with proper torque specs and safety procedures.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable and secure the battery to prevent shorts.
- Locate the starter on the engine/transmission bell housing area.
- Disconnect electrical connections from the starter and any shields or brackets.
- Remove the mounting bolts and carefully remove the starter from the engine.
- Compare the new starter to ensure compatibility, then install and torque mounting bolts to specification.
- Reconnect wiring, reinstall any shields, reconnect the battery, and test the system by attempting to start the engine.
Conclusion: The exact steps can vary by engine code and access, but the general process involves safely removing wiring, mounting bolts, and installing and testing the new unit. A shop will also bench-test the starter prior to installation if you opt for a remanufactured unit.
When to call a pro and where to shop
If you’re not comfortable with automotive electrical work, or if the starter symptoms are mixed with battery or alternator issues, it’s wise to consult a professional. Gather quotes from a couple of independent shops, Honda specialists, and, if appropriate, dealership service departments. Compare both price and warranty terms for parts and labor.
Conclusion: For most owners of a 1998 Honda Accord, a starter replacement from a reputable shop should fall in the $250–$550 range, with variations based on part type, region, and labor rates. Always get a written estimate before authorizing the work.
Summary
Replacing a starter on a 1998 Honda Accord generally costs $250–$550, driven mainly by the choice of starter (remanufactured, aftermarket, or OEM) and the local labor rate. DIY can reduce the cost by eliminating labor charges, but requires the right skills and tools. Always obtain a detailed, written estimate and confirm the root cause before proceeding. In most cases, the job is straightforward for a capable mechanic or Honda specialist, and the long-term reliability payoff makes the expense worthwhile.
How much is a starter for a 1998 Honda Accord?
Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory
The average price for a 1998 Honda Accord Starter Part at Advance Auto Parts is around $157.26, with a range that starts at $114.99 and goes up to $234.99. With 10 options in stock from 5 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy.
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 do I know if my Honda Accord starter is bad?
You know you have a bad starter when your car won't start, you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key, or if the engine cranks very slowly. Other signs include unusual grinding noises or intermittent starting issues where sometimes your car starts fine and doesn't respond at all other times.
How much is it to fix a starter on a Honda Accord?
between $645 and $963
The average cost for a Honda Accord Starter Replacement is between $645 and $963.