Expect to pay roughly $60 to $450 for a replacement starter on a 2002 Honda Civic, depending on whether you purchase a used, rebuilt, or new unit and whether you choose aftermarket or OEM. This article outlines current pricing ranges, where to shop, and tips to ensure you get the right part for your car.
What affects the price
Prices hinge on the part’s condition, brand, warranty, and évent core charges, plus how you purchase (OEM vs aftermarket). Compatibility with the Civic’s D-series engine is essential to avoid fitment issues.
Price ranges by source
Prices vary by source and condition; the ranges below reflect typical market pricing for the 2002 Civic as of 2024–2026. Always confirm current price and compatibility before purchase.
- New OEM starter (Honda-branded, dealer or certified parts): typically $250–$450+
- Remanufactured starter (rebuilt by a vendor with warranty): roughly $120–$250
- New aftermarket starter (non-OEM brands): commonly $100–$250
- Used or salvaged starter (from a junkyard or online marketplace): often $40–$120
Note: Some sellers apply a core charge when you buy a new unit. Expect a core charge of roughly $0–$60 in many cases, which is refunded when you return your old starter.
Where to buy
Several channels carry starters for the 2002 Civic, with varying prices, warranties, and return policies. Compare OEM, remanufactured, and aftermarket options to find the best value.
OEM vs aftermarket options
OEM Honda starters are typically the most expensive but offer a guaranteed fit and a Honda-backed warranty. Aftermarket options can be cheaper and offer solid warranties, but quality varies by brand.
- Auto parts retailers (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto, NAPA) – broad selection, convenient in-store pickup and online pricing.
- Honda dealerships and certified service centers – OEM starters with dealer warranty, usually at the highest price.
- Online marketplaces and aggregators (RockAuto, eBay Motors) – wide range of new and remanufactured options; watch seller ratings and shipping details.
- Salvage yards and junkyards – typically the cheapest option, but condition and compatibility can vary; verify fitment before purchase.
Tip: Always verify part numbers, engine compatibility, and any core charges before purchase. If buying used or rebuilt, request a warranty period (ideally 90 days or more) and review the return policy.
What to check before buying
To avoid buying the wrong part for the 2002 Civic’s engine variants, run through these checks before you buy.
- Confirm the exact engine code and model year to match the starter’s fitment.
- Inspect mounting holes, bolt pattern, and starter housing to align with the mounting bracket.
- Verify electrical connections (positive lead and signal wire) match your wiring harness.
- Ask about warranty coverage and core-return policy; know whether a core charge applies and how to return it.
With the right part and proper installation, your Civic should cranking again smoothly. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, factor in labor costs at a shop.
Summary
Prices for a 2002 Honda Civic starter generally fall between $60 and $450, influenced by whether the part is used, remanufactured, or new, and by OEM versus aftermarket branding. OEM units sit at the higher end, while remanufactured and aftermarket options provide a better balance of cost and reliability. Shop across auto parts stores, Honda dealers, online marketplaces, and salvage yards, and always verify compatibility with your engine code and year. Plan for possible labor costs if you’re not tackling the installation yourself.