PhillyMAx

iTrader: (1)

I've heard a weird grinding noise upon start-up for a about 2 weeks, and suspected it was my starter that was going (130K miles). I brought the car to my mechanic for an oil change, and he confirmed to me that I need a new starter, but it's not required to be replaced immediately.

He told me that a replacement starter can cost about $100 to purchase at a dealership, but I've looked on Ebay and saw auto stores that sell new replacements anywhere from $40 to $150, including shipping.

I haven't called my local stealership yet, but I need opinions on whether Ebay is reliable as a dealership, which may save me a few bucks. Thanks.

dgeesaman

iTrader: (10)

If it's Nissan OEM that you're getting from Ebay, yes it's probably ok.

Did you consider Courtesy, Jim Rome, or Conicelli (discount Nissan parts dealers?)

Cheap reman starters have less new components inside which means they won't last as long. The cheaper you go, the more likely you'll need to replace it again soon.

Dave

tomservo291

Mine just died, and I got an autozone starter (had to change it immediately and they had one in stock.) It was $159 with a $40 core charge, and lifetime warranty, so if it does die I can pick up a new one as often as I need.

Replacing it is pretty easy, it's just hard to get off the larger (17mm) bolt since it is a transmission bolt (the bolt is almost a foot long, and trying to use a ratchet with ~ 1' of extensions to clear all the electrical connections/hoses etc down there you will be trying to turn a torqued down bolt with 2' of extension! Easiest way I found was to get a big box end wedged onto it and use another old heavy-duty wrench (almost snapped a newer aluminum one.. ouch!) as your extension.) ... should take about a half hour.