If you need to replace your Honda Accord starter, consider doing it yourself. Taking your vehicle in for the replacement can cost $1,000 or more, but doing the replacement yourself might only set you back $100 and a couple of hours.
Use Your VIN To Match Product & Order
Before you buy a starter, it is vital to match the part to your VIN. A Honda Accord may have a different starter than other Honda vehicles, and your vehicle year might have a different part than newer or older models.
Finding the right part is easy with AutoZone’s VIN number lookup tool. The tool is on the company’s website and makes it easy to find the right parts for your Accord.
Have Enough Time Set Aside
Depending on your skill level, replacing the starter can take between two and three hours. Most of the difficulty stems from the starter’s location, which is under the air intake manifold. You may need to set aside a little extra time to remove the two mounting bolts because they may be stiff from dirt and salt buildup.
Have the Right Tools
To perform the replacement, you will need several tools. At a minimum, you will need the following:
- Sockets and wrenches of various sizes (10mm, 12mm, 14mm, and 17mm)
- Air intake hose
- Manifold gasket
- Anti-seize lubricant
- penetrating oil
Replace the Starter
With the right tools and an appropriate amount of time set aside, you are ready to replace the starter for your car. You’ll want to park on a level area and disconnect the negative cable on the battery. Disconnecting the cable ensures you won’t accidentally short the new starter.
Next, you need to remove the engine cover, exposing the air intake manifold. You can remove this piece using a 14mm wrench. Pull the intake manifold straight back and secure it out of the way.
Disconnect all wire connections to the old starter. Then, disconnect the solenoid actuator. Next, remove the main power to the starter and the two mounting bolts.
With the bolts removed, you can pull the old starter free. Once removed, take a picture so you can inspect the flywheel teeth. If the teeth are damaged, it could indicate bigger problems than the starter.
Finally, you can slide the new starter in place, lining up the mounting holes and securing it into position. Then, attach the solenoid signal wire and the main power connector. To wrap things up, you will need to reattach any necessary wiring and reinstall the air intake manifold and engine cover. Reconnect the battery and test the new starter.
The most complicated part of a starter replacement in a Honda Accord is removing the mounting bolts. If you can get past that step, you are golden.
Replacing a vehicle’s starter is a potential DIY project that can save you a lot of money. Still, before you dive into a starter replacement, contact an automotive professional to discuss your options. Remember, your starter might only be part of the problem.
