The starter on a 2017 Hyundai Accent is mounted to the engine’s bell housing on the passenger side, near where the engine meets the transmission. It’s powered by a thick battery cable and has a smaller electrical connector.
Location and access
The starter in the 2017 Accent is a compact cylindrical unit bolted to the side of the engine block at the bell housing. You’ll typically find it on the passenger side of the engine bay, near the point where the engine and transmission join. Access can often be gained from above, but some angles are easier from beneath.
From above the engine bay
Use an engine-bay view to identify the starter by its small cylindrical body with two mounting bolts and a wiring harness. It sits along the seam where the engine block meets the transmission, on the passenger side.
- Identify the bell housing area and scan for a compact cylinder with a large electrical cable attached.
- Note the two mounting bolts that secure the starter to the engine block.
- Follow the thick battery cable from the positive terminal to the starter stud to confirm the connection.
- Use a flashlight to help distinguish the starter from nearby components like the alternator and power steering pump.
Locating the starter from above can be challenging due to wiring looms and exhaust components; if you cannot clearly see it, check from below or remove a front splash shield if present.
From below the car
If you can’t see the starter from the engine bay, you can access it from underneath by removing the front undercar cover or splash shield and looking up at the bell housing area where the engine meets the transmission.
- With the vehicle safely supported, look along the side of the transmission bell housing for the starter’s cylindrical body.
- Identify the mounting bolts and the solenoid terminal where the battery cable and small electrical connector attach.
- Be mindful of hot exhaust components if the engine has been running recently.
- Take a photo or label wiring before disconnecting anything to avoid miswiring on reassembly.
Access from below often provides a clearer line of sight, particularly on earlier Accent models where hoses and shields can obscure the view from above.
What to know about testing or replacing the starter
Whether you’re diagnosing a no-start condition or planning to replace the unit, follow safe electrical procedures and consult the factory service manual for torque specs and wiring details. The starter is connected to the battery with a thick positive cable and to the ignition/starter relay with a smaller connector.
Before you begin any work, disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent sparks and accidental cranking.
- Test the starter’s electrical connections for corrosion, looseness, or damaged insulation.
- For removal, support the engine bay and remove the two mounting bolts, then disconnect the wiring harness and battery cable.
- Replace with a new or remanufactured starter, align the mounting holes, and tighten to the service manual’s specification.
- Reconnect the battery and perform a bench or vehicle test to ensure the starter engages properly with the flywheel.
Always refer to the Hyundai service manual for precise torque values and procedure steps for your specific VIN and transmission type.
In summary, the starter on a 2017 Hyundai Accent is mounted to the engine block at the bell housing on the passenger side. It is accessible from above the engine or from underneath the vehicle, depending on space and tools. Always disconnect the battery before work and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removal and installation.
Summary: The starter is on the engine-bell housing area on the right side of the engine, bolted to the transmission bell housing; access can be gained from above or below, but always disconnect the battery before work, and consult the service manual for exact removal and installation instructions.