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10 Best Vehicle Starter Motors 2025 in the United States

#3
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Valeo Service 849501 New Premium Starter Replacement for STR Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L 14-17

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,107
Compatibility
Durability
Brand Reputation

Most important from
124 reviews

Compatibility
Great fit and still working strong.
Durability
Installation was a breeze and it starts my truck every time with no issues or weird noises.
Brand Reputation
Price was great, also half the cost from GM.

The VALEO 849501 Starter Motor is a solid choice for owners of a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 from 2014-2015. It operates at 12 Volts and has a wattage of 1.4 KW, providing a good power rating for reliable starting performance. The starter is specifically designed to meet or exceed OEM standards, ensuring it delivers high cranking torque under various conditions. This means it should start your engine efficiently, even in challenging environments with high heat, vibration, or dust.

Additionally, the product features premium quality components and is 100% new, which contributes to its durability. Valeo is a reputable brand known for its automotive parts, which adds to the credibility of the product. On the downside, the starter is somewhat large (14.75 x 9.25 x 6.1 inches) and might be heavier than some alternatives, which could make installation a bit tricky for some users.

Despite this, the combination of power and durability makes it a strong contender for those needing a reliable replacement starter for their Silverado 1500.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,107
Compatibility
Durability
Brand Reputation

Most important from
124 reviews

Compatibility
Great fit and still working strong.
Durability
Installation was a breeze and it starts my truck every time with no issues or weird noises.
Brand Reputation
Price was great, also half the cost from GM.
#2

GM Genuine Parts 12645298 Starter

Rating
10.0
Compatibility

Most important from
678 reviews

Compatibility
Fits and my car starts up fine, not one issue.

The General Motors GM Genuine Parts 12645298 Starter stands out as a solid replacement option for GM vehicles. One of its primary strengths is the fact that it is 100% newly manufactured and designed to be an exact replacement for the original starter, ensuring perfect compatibility with GM vehicles. This starter matches the original specifications, providing remarkable durability due to its construction from high-quality materials like copper, steel, aluminum, and plastic.

The power rating of 1.4 KW and 116.67 Amperes ensures sufficient power and torque for starting your vehicle reliably. The brand reputation of General Motors adds a layer of trust and reliability to this product, given GM's long-standing history in the automotive industry. Customer reviews are highly positive, scoring 4.6 out of 5 stars from 644 ratings, indicating general satisfaction with its performance and durability.

On the downside, its weight of 6.62 pounds might make installation a bit cumbersome for some users. Also, if your vehicle is not a GM make or model, compatibility could be an issue, as this product is specifically designed for GM vehicles. This starter is a recommended choice for those specifically looking for a GM vehicle starter replacement, valuing reliability and durability from a trusted brand.

Rating
10.0
Compatibility

Most important from
678 reviews

Compatibility
Fits and my car starts up fine, not one issue.
#3

Remy 8200308 Starter

Rating
9.7
Compatibility

Most important from
32 reviews

Compatibility
An excellent replacement for older, heavier units, fitting perfectly and turning over engines with ease.

The Remy 8200308 HD Starter is a 12-volt, heavy-duty starter motor that seems well-suited for various vehicles, including trucks and larger automobiles. With a power rating of 1.1 kW and an amperage of 22 amps, it provides a strong and reliable performance, ensuring your vehicle starts efficiently. The torque provided is sufficient for most standard applications, making it a versatile choice for many types of vehicles.

Additionally, the three-phase type suggests a robust build and consistent performance over time. Compatibility is generally wide, but confirming with your specific vehicle model is crucial before purchasing. The dimensions (19 x 12 x 9 inches) and weight (31 pounds) indicate it is a substantial unit, which may require careful handling and installation. Durability is a strong point, given the brand reputation of Remy, which is known for producing long-lasting auto parts.

It has been available since 2012, showing sustained presence in the market. One potential drawback is the weight, which might make installation more challenging compared to lighter models. Additionally, while it is not discontinued by the manufacturer, its best-seller rank indicates that there may be newer, perhaps more advanced options available. The Remy 8200308 is a durable, high-performing starter motor suitable for heavy-duty applications, but its weight and popularity ranking should be considered before making a purchase.

Rating
9.7
Compatibility

Most important from
32 reviews

Compatibility
An excellent replacement for older, heavier units, fitting perfectly and turning over engines with ease.

Buying Guide for the Best Vehicle Starter Motors

Choosing the right vehicle starter motor is crucial for ensuring your vehicle starts reliably and efficiently. A starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over, allowing it to begin the combustion process. When selecting a starter motor, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure compatibility and performance. Here are the main specs to focus on and how to navigate them.
Power RatingThe power rating of a starter motor indicates how much power it can deliver to start the engine. This is usually measured in kilowatts (kW). A higher power rating means the starter motor can handle larger engines or engines that require more effort to start. For small cars, a starter motor with a lower power rating (around 0.8-1.2 kW) is typically sufficient. For larger vehicles or those with high-performance engines, you might need a starter motor with a higher power rating (1.5 kW or more). Consider the size and type of your vehicle's engine when choosing the power rating.
TorqueTorque is the rotational force that the starter motor generates to turn the engine. Higher torque means the starter motor can turn the engine more effectively, especially in cold weather or when the engine is older and harder to start. Starter motors with higher torque are generally better for larger engines or diesel engines, which require more force to start. For most passenger cars, a moderate torque rating is sufficient, but for trucks or heavy-duty vehicles, look for a starter motor with higher torque.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the starter motor will fit and work with your specific vehicle make and model. Starter motors are designed to fit specific engine types and configurations, so it's important to check the compatibility before purchasing. This includes ensuring the mounting points, electrical connections, and overall size match your vehicle's requirements. Always refer to your vehicle's manual or consult with a professional to ensure the starter motor you choose is compatible with your vehicle.
DurabilityDurability is a measure of how long the starter motor will last and how well it can withstand regular use. Look for starter motors made from high-quality materials and those that have good reviews for longevity. Durability is especially important if you drive frequently or in harsh conditions. A durable starter motor will save you money and hassle in the long run by reducing the need for replacements and repairs.
Brand ReputationThe reputation of the brand manufacturing the starter motor can give you an idea of the quality and reliability of the product. Established brands with good reputations are more likely to produce starter motors that are reliable and perform well. Research brands and read reviews from other users to gauge the reliability and performance of their starter motors. Choosing a starter motor from a reputable brand can provide peace of mind and ensure you get a product that meets your needs.

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