3 yrs ago I replaced my starter motor because of an intermittent starting problem. At the same time I had issues with the positive cable battery clamp: corrosion at the crimp...I cleaned the cable end and replaced the clamp. I replaced the starter (in retrospect, this may have been a mistake) just because the problem was intermittent and I just wanted to be sure that the problem was solved.

Today I have starter problems again and was able to drive the car home by tapping on the starter motor/solenoid while my wife tapped the start key.

Three years ago I replaced the starter with a replacement from a local supplier and my question is: is an OEM starter much more reliable than the run-of-the-mill starter.

If I get a OEM starter (Denso?) from the dealer I know it will cost a lot more than a non-oem replacement but getting stranded is a PITA!!!!

I would appreciate any and all opinions. Thank you.

 

You could look around online for a new starter unit - I don't have a brand that I have personally used. A quick searched I found a few new units from WAI and TYC, there might be more I only did a quick search.

 

Rockauto sells a Denso aftermarket unit.

I've also used local shops that rebuild starters and alternators.

 

I would second PAhonda. Anything with "Denso" or "Nippon Denso" is just as good as OEM.


If you want a lifetime guarantee with free replacement (meaning you don't mind to do the work yourself) then get one from Autozone.

 

Ok, thanks for the replies...I must have had a senior moment when I posted because I later recalled that the starter that I purchased from O'Reily had a lifetime warranty. So I went down to the store this afternoon and picked up a replacement...no hassles, so kudos to the store.

Hopefully, this starter will last a little longer! Thanks again for the replies...