Replacing the starter on a 1998 Honda Civic typically costs about $250 to $600, including parts and labor; doing the job yourself can reduce costs.
For context, the 1998 Civic uses a compact starter mounted near the engine and transmission interface. Replacing it involves disconnecting the battery, removing electrical connections and mounting bolts, and installing a new unit. Prices reflect typical ranges in the United States as of 2025 and vary by region, supplier, and the type of starter chosen; some shops may quote a diagnostic charge if other electrical issues are present.
Cost components
Understanding the cost starts with how you source the parts and what labor your shop charges. Here are typical price ranges for the parts and the labor to install them.
- Starter remanufactured/rebuilt: $60–$150
- Starter new aftermarket: $100–$250
- Starter OEM/new from dealer: $300–$500
- Labor to install: $150–$350
- Core charge and taxes (varies by supplier/location): $0–$60
Prices depend on your region, the shop's hourly rate, and whether a core charge or recycling fee applies. Warranties can also affect total value.
DIY vs professional replacement
Buying the part and installing it yourself can save labor costs, but it requires basic automotive skills and tools. The job for a Civic of this era typically takes about 1–2 hours for an experienced DIYer, though awkward access can add time. If you opt for a shop, you’ll pay for labor and the convenience of warranty coverage.
- DIY: roughly 1–2 hours, lower total cost but higher complexity if you’re not comfortable with the process.
- Professional installation: typically 1–3 hours depending on access and shop workload.
- Warranties: remanufactured starters often come with a 1–3 year warranty; some shops cover labor for the replacement during the warranty period.
Ask for a written quote that breaks out parts, labor, and any fees to avoid surprises.
What to expect at a mechanic or parts store
Whether you choose a dealer, independent shop, or parts retailer, the installer will typically diagnose a starter issue, perform the replacement, and test the system to ensure the engine starts reliably. Electrical issues such as a weak battery, bad ignition switch, or corroded battery terminals can mimic starter failure and may increase the final cost if not diagnosed early.
Key questions to ask before starting
Before authorizing work, request clarity on part type (OEM vs aftermarket vs remanufactured), warranty terms, core return, labor rate, and whether tax and disposal fees are included in the quoted price.
Summary
In brief, replacing the starter on a 1998 Honda Civic generally falls in the mid-range of automotive repairs: expect parts to range from about $60 to $500 and labor from roughly $150 to $350, depending on the part type, regional labor rates, and whether a dealer or independent shop is used. DIY replacement can lower costs, while professional service offers warranties and convenience.
What is the average cost to replace a starter in a Honda Civic?
The average cost for a Honda Civic Starter Replacement is between $536 and $965. Labor costs are estimated between $170 and $250 while parts are priced between $366 and $715. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
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 is a starter for a 1998 Honda Civic?
With prices starting as low as $185.99 and an average price of $259.32, you can choose one that fits your budget while delivering the quality you expect.
How to tell if the starter is bad on a Honda Civic?
Bad Starter Symptoms
- DASH LIGHTS. The dashboard warning lights come on when you try to turn on your car, but the engine does not crank or spin over.
- CLICKING. If you experience the dreaded “clicking” noise when you try to turn the key, this is a good sign of starter failure.
- SLOW CRANKING.
- SMOKE.
- OIL-SOAKED STARTER.