Starter Repair & Replacement Shops in Massachusetts
Welcome to the Starter Repair & Replacement section of the Mass Auto Repair Shops directory! When it comes to your vehicle, a smooth start is the first step towards a seamless journey. That's why we've curated a comprehensive list of the most reliable and highly rated starter repair and replacement shops across Massachusetts. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn ignition or a completely non-responsive engine, our directory connects you with top-tier auto professionals that can get your car back up and running in no time. Trust us to help you find the best specialists for your starter repair and replacement needs.
Recommended Starter Repair & Replacement Shops
Our directory is designed to help you find reliable, trustworthy, and skilled auto repair shops specializing in starter repair and replacement. We've carefully curated a list of the top-rated shops across Massachusetts, ensuring you're never left stranded.
Whether your starter is showing signs of wear or has already given up the ghost, the experts listed in our directory have the skills, experience, and equipment necessary to get your car back on the road.
Whether your starter is showing signs of wear or has already given up the ghost, the experts listed in our directory have the skills, experience, and equipment necessary to get your car back on the road.
Hub Starters & Alternators, Inc
Hub Starters & Alternators Inc
172 Broadway
Malden, MA 02148
781-322-6151
Hub Starters & Alternators Inc
172 Broadway
Malden, MA 02148
781-322-6151
​Signs You Need Starter Repair or Replacement
- The Dreaded Click: When you turn the key or push the start button, all you hear is a click. This sound is often a signal that your starter motor isn't turning over.
- Grinding Noise: If you hear a grinding noise, similar to when you try to start an already running engine, it might indicate a problem with the starter gear or the flywheel.
- Freewheeling: This occurs when you attempt to start the car and all you hear is a whining noise without the engine cranking. It could mean your starter isn't engaging with the flywheel.
- Smoke or Burning Smell: Seeing smoke or smelling something burning when starting your vehicle is never a good sign and could indicate a starter motor that's drawing too much power.
Synergy in Motion: Understanding the Interplay between Car Starters and Alternators
The starter and alternator in a vehicle work in tandem to ensure smooth operation. The process begins when the ignition key is turned, prompting the starter to use electricity from the battery to spin the engine, initiating the combustion process. Once the engine is running, the alternator takes over, generating electricity to power all electrical components and importantly, recharge the battery. As the engine runs, it turns a belt connected to the alternator, which generates this electricity. Therefore, the starter uses power from the battery to kickstart the engine, and the alternator replenishes that power, maintaining a charged battery for the next ignition. This interplay between the starter and alternator is crucial for the car's functioning. Find a local mechanic for alternator repair & replacement.
Car Starter Troubleshooting: Frequently Asked Questions for Car Owners
1. What is a car starter and what does it do?
A car starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation. When you turn the ignition key, the starter uses power from the battery to spin the engine, kickstarting the combustion process.
2. How can I tell if my starter is failing?
Common signs of a failing starter include a grinding noise during ignition, a whirring sound with no engine turnover, smoke, or an oil-soaked starter. Other signs can be a freewheeling sensation when trying to start the car or the car only starts intermittently.
3. Can a bad starter drain my battery?
Yes, a faulty starter can potentially drain your battery. If the starter motor is not turning off properly after starting the engine, it can continue to run and draw power from the battery.
4. Should I replace my starter, or can it be repaired?
This depends on the specific issue with your starter. Sometimes, starters can be repaired, which is often less expensive than replacement. However, in some cases, replacement might be the only option.
5. How long does a car starter typically last?
The lifespan of a car starter varies depending on factors like driving conditions, the number of starts, and the vehicle make and model. However, on average, a starter can last between 30,000 to 200,000 miles.
6. Can I start my car if the starter is bad?
In some cases, it might be possible to jump-start the car or push-start it (if it's a manual transmission). But these are temporary solutions. A faulty starter should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the vehicle.
7. How much does it typically cost to replace a starter?
The cost to replace a starter can vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you choose a new or remanufactured part. On average, you might expect to pay between $300 and $600 for parts and labor.
A car starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation. When you turn the ignition key, the starter uses power from the battery to spin the engine, kickstarting the combustion process.
2. How can I tell if my starter is failing?
Common signs of a failing starter include a grinding noise during ignition, a whirring sound with no engine turnover, smoke, or an oil-soaked starter. Other signs can be a freewheeling sensation when trying to start the car or the car only starts intermittently.
3. Can a bad starter drain my battery?
Yes, a faulty starter can potentially drain your battery. If the starter motor is not turning off properly after starting the engine, it can continue to run and draw power from the battery.
4. Should I replace my starter, or can it be repaired?
This depends on the specific issue with your starter. Sometimes, starters can be repaired, which is often less expensive than replacement. However, in some cases, replacement might be the only option.
5. How long does a car starter typically last?
The lifespan of a car starter varies depending on factors like driving conditions, the number of starts, and the vehicle make and model. However, on average, a starter can last between 30,000 to 200,000 miles.
6. Can I start my car if the starter is bad?
In some cases, it might be possible to jump-start the car or push-start it (if it's a manual transmission). But these are temporary solutions. A faulty starter should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the vehicle.
7. How much does it typically cost to replace a starter?
The cost to replace a starter can vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle and whether you choose a new or remanufactured part. On average, you might expect to pay between $300 and $600 for parts and labor.