Best Car Starter Relays of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2026

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Car starter relays are essential components of a vehicle's starting system. They serve as an intermediary between the battery and the starter motor, allowing the former to supply power to the latter. These relays are designed to handle high electrical currents, and are often located in the engine compartment or near the battery. Reliable and durable, car starter relays are crucial for ensuring that a vehicle starts smoothly and consistently. They are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to fit different types of vehicles and starting systems.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nilight 50023R Relay Kit Cover #TOP 1
Nilight 50023R Relay Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Nilight 50003R Automotive Set 5-Pin 30/40A 12V SPDT with Interlocking Relay Socket and Wiring Harness-5 Pack Cover #TOP 2
Nilight 50003R Automotive Set 5-Pin 30/40A 12V SPDT with Interlocking Relay Socket and Wiring Harness-5 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Nilight 5-Pack 12V Waterproof Automotive Relay and Harness Set Cover #TOP 3
Nilight 5-Pack 12V Waterproof Automotive Relay and Harness Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Car Starter Relays

#TOP 1

Nilight 50023R Relay Kit

50023R
Fuse Relay 5 Pack
Fuse Relay 5 Pack
Nilight 50023R Relay Kit Cover
Nilight 50023R 5 Pack 30A Fused Relay Switch Kit 12V 4 Pin SPST Relay Interlocking Harness Socket Holder 30 Amp 12 Volt Automotive Relays with Fuse for Auto Cars Trucks RV

The Nilight Relay Kit is an upgraded automotive relay kit that includes 5 relays, 5 relay harnesses, and 5 30A blade fuses. It features a built-in fuse socket with 30A blade fuses and heavy-duty 14AWG wires for the main contact, eliminating the need for a separate fuse holder and saving space and money. The interlocking mounting design allows for easy installation and cable management. The relay sockets come with color-labeled wires for convenient wiring. This kit has a wide range of applications, including car keys power control, over-load protection, trunk release, power door lock/actuator control, and more. With a 2-year warranty, the Nilight Relay Kit offers reliability and convenience for all your automotive needs.

What We Like
Built-in fuse design
Easy installation process
Reliable for adding circuits
Good value for price
Convenient for car upgrades
What We Don't Like
Occasional missing fuses
Minor wiring label confusion
#TOP 2

Nilight 50003R Automotive Set 5-Pin 30/40A 12V SPDT with Interlocking Relay Socket and Wiring Harness-5 Pack

50003R
Nilight 50003R Automotive Set 5-Pin 30/40A 12V SPDT with Interlocking Relay Socket and Wiring Harness-5 Pack Cover
Nilight 50003R Automotive Set 5-Pin 30/40A 12V SPDT with Interlocking Relay Socket and Wiring Harness-5 Pack, 2 Years Warranty

The Nilight Relay Set is a high-quality automotive relay set designed for easy installation and superior performance. With a high switching capability of 40A/14V DC for normally open and 30A/14V DC for normally close, this relay set is suitable for Nilight LED light bar wiring harness kit. The durable relay and harness socket, made with high-grade materials, ensure a long lifespan. The unique male-female slot design allows for easy connection and a clean appearance after installation. The relay sockets come with different colored wires for loads/accessories, making the wiring process simple and convenient. With the Nilight Relay Set, you can enjoy the convenience of reliable and efficient electrical connections in your vehicle.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy-to-read wiring diagram
Thick copper wires
Pigtail harness included
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Minor socket alignment issue
Occasional defective out of box
#TOP 3

Nilight 5-Pack 12V Waterproof Automotive Relay and Harness Set

50044R
30A-5PC
Nilight 5-Pack 12V Waterproof Automotive Relay and Harness Set Cover
Nilight 5 Pack Waterproof Relay and Harness 40/30 AMP Heavy Duty 12 AWG Tinned Copper Wires 5-PIN SPDT Style 12V Automotive Relay and Harness Set

The Nilight Waterproof Relay Set is designed to provide reliable 12V automotive relay performance with a durable build that lasts. These relays operate at coil voltages up to 14V, ensuring compatibility with most vehicle systems. You’ll appreciate the high-quality materials used in the relay and harness, which help make them sturdy and long-lasting. The pre-wired heavy-duty harness features thick 12/16 AWG wires, making installation easier and safer for your vehicle’s electrical needs. Plus, the enhanced waterproof design keeps the relays protected from water, dust, and moisture, so they work well in all weather conditions, giving you peace of mind on the road.

What We Like
Waterproof and well-sealed
High build quality
Easy installation and plug-and-play
Thick copper wires
Great value 5-pack
What We Don't Like
Wires not numbered
#TOP 4

ecocstm JD1914-12V-40A Waterproof 5-Pin Car Relays

ecocstm-AR-01
ecocstm JD1914-12V-40A Waterproof 5-Pin Car Relays Cover
4 PCS Relays, 5 Pin Relay, 40A Waterproof Car Relays, 12V Relay Switch for Electric Cooling Fans, Motor Starters, Automotive Taillights

The ecocstm Waterproof 5-Pin Relays are built with durable PA66 flame-retardant material and pure copper wires, which help keep the relay cool and ensure strong magnetic performance. This means you get reliable operation even under high temperatures. The relays offer excellent waterproof protection with an IP67 rating, so they work well in wet or dusty conditions without failing. Each relay features a simple five-pin design that makes installation quick and easy—you can replace your old relay without extra tools. Plus, the coil power and resistance are optimized for consistent and efficient performance in your vehicle’s electrical systems.

What We Like
Instant performance improvement
Easy replacement process
Enhanced plow light system
Customer satisfaction
#TOP 5

6 Pack 4-Pin 12V Bosch Style Fused Relay Switch Kit

PSZACCEPS179R
6 Pack 4-Pin 12V Bosch Style Fused Relay Switch Kit Cover
True MODS 6 Pack 4-Pin 12V Bosch Style Fused Relay Switch Kit [Interlocking Harness Socket Holder] [14 AWG Hot Wires] [SPST] [30 Amp] 12 Volt Automotive relays with Fuse for Auto Cars

This car starter relay kit includes six 4-pin SPST relays with a built-in fuse socket and a 30A blade fuse, and heavy-duty 14AWG wires for the main contact. It has a high switching capability of 30A, and its wire specifications are: black for ground (85), red for VDC (30), white for trigger (86), and blue for output N/O (87). The kit also comes with six relay harnesses and six blade fuses.

What We Like
Built-in fuse design
Modular and stackable relays
Clean and organized wiring
Heavy-duty wire quality
Easy installation and replacement
What We Don't Like
Brittle mounting hole
Possible wiring color mismatch
#TOP 6

True MODS 5-Pin Waterproof Relay Kit

SUVELAM
BLUE (30/40A)
1 Pack
True MODS 5-Pin Waterproof Relay Kit Cover
True MODS 1 Pack 5-Pin 12V Bosch Style Waterproof Relay Kit [Harness Socket] [12 AWG Hot Wires] [SPDT] [30/40 Amp] 12 Volt Automotive Marine Relays for Boats Auto Fan Cars

The True MODS Relay Kit is designed for reliable performance in automotive and marine applications. With a waterproof design and heavy-duty 12AWG wires, this kit ensures durability and safety in various environments. The Bosch style 5-Pin SPDT relay offers versatility, allowing you to control multiple devices effectively. Plus, the high switching capability of up to 40A makes it suitable for demanding tasks, giving you peace of mind when powering your vehicle or boat systems. This kit is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their electrical setup with a dependable relay solution.

What We Like
Heavy duty construction
Waterproof design
Easy installation
Reliable long-term performance
Versatile automotive use
What We Don't Like
Pin numbers hard to read
Wires thicker than needed
#TOP 7

Gebildet Car Relay Harness 12V 40A 4 Pin SPST Harness Sockets

E079
4pin-12V-2pcs
Gebildet Car Relay Harness 12V 40A 4 Pin SPST Harness Sockets Cover
Gebildet 2pcs JD1912 Car Relay Harness 12V 40A 4 Pin SPST 12AWG Harness Sockets with Built-in Diode for Automotive Truck Van Motorcycle Boat

This Gebildet Car Relay Harness contains two heavy-duty 12V 40A 4 Pin SPST relays. The wires are color-labeled for easier installation. It has a high contact voltage, high sensitivity and low power consumption. The contact material is Ag Alloy and the contact resistance is less than or equal to 100MΩ. It has a long electrical life expectancy of 100,000 operations and a long mechanical life expectancy of 10,000,000 operations.

What We Like
Color-coded wires for easy installation
Durable, quality construction
Versatile application range
Good value for price
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Lack of installation instructions
Fit and finish could be tighter
#TOP 8

Gebildet 3pcs 12V 30A Fuse Relay Switch Set

E262
Gebildet 3pcs 12V 30A Fuse Relay Switch Set Cover
Gebildet 3pcs 12V Fuse Relay Switch 12 AWG Harness Set with Built-in Diode- 30A ATO/ATC Blade Fuse, 4-Pin SPST Automotive Electrical Relays

The Gebildet 12V Fuse Relay Set makes wiring your automotive electrical system simple and convenient. Each relay socket has color-coded wires, so you can easily connect the right terminals without confusion. With built-in diodes, these relays protect your vehicle’s electronics by preventing voltage spikes during switching. The upgraded design includes a 30A blade fuse built into the socket, saving you space and eliminating the need for a separate fuse holder. Plus, heavy-duty 12AWG wires ensure strong and reliable current flow. This set is perfect for anyone who wants a safe, efficient, and easy-to-install relay solution for their car.

What We Like
Great product quality
Easy installation
Built-in fuse convenience
Reduces wiring complexity
What We Don't Like
Slight clicking sound
Pack size may be too large
#TOP 9

EPAuto 30/40 AMP Bosch Style Relay Harness 4 Pack

AE-001-2
4 Pack
EPAuto 30/40 AMP Bosch Style Relay Harness 4 Pack Cover
EPAuto 30/40 AMP Relay Harness Spdt 12V Bosch Style - 4 Pack

The EPAuto Relay Harness 4 Pack offers powerful 30A and 40A switching capacity, allowing you to handle high electrical loads safely and efficiently. Each relay comes with a durable, impact-resistant molded socket featuring five wires—white for common, black for normally closed, and yellow for normally open connections—making installation straightforward and reliable. The package includes four relays and four sockets with wires, giving you everything needed for multiple setups or replacements. Plus, the UL-listed 6-inch wires with pigtail leads ensure safe and secure connections for your vehicle's main contacts, providing peace of mind and durability.

What We Like
Affordable price
Reliable relay performance
Easy to modify wiring
Useful for various projects
Includes connector harness
What We Don't Like
Wiring not for high current
Flimsy mounting bracket
#TOP 10

ONLINE LED STORE True MODS Bosch Style 5-Pin 12V Relay Kit

ONLINE LED STORE True MODS Bosch Style 5-Pin 12V Relay Kit Cover
True MODS 6 Pack Bosch Style 5-Pin 12V Relay Kit [Interlocking Harness Socket Holder] [14 AWG Hot Wires] [SPDT] [30/40 Amp] 12 Volt Automotive Relays for Auto Fan Cars

The ONLINE LED STORE Relay Kit offers a reliable Bosch-style 12V relay designed to handle high power with its 40A/30A switching capacity, perfect for automotive use like controlling fans or other car systems. You'll appreciate the interlocking socket harness base, which keeps your wires neat and organized, making installation and maintenance easier. The kit comes with heavy-duty 14AWG wires, ensuring durability and safe power handling. Plus, a user manual is available for download, giving you clear instructions to help you set up the relays confidently and correctly.

What We Like
Great value for price
Easy installation process
Interlocking sockets feature
Decent wire quality
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Minor harness pin issue
Documentation slightly confusing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What relays can cause a car not to start?

The starter relay is a common relay that can cause a car not to start. If the starter relay goes bad, the electrical signal from the battery to the starter motor is disrupted, preventing the engine from turning over.

2. Why is my starter relay not clicking?

If you don't hear a clicking noise when trying to start your car, it could indicate a faulty starter solenoid or a bad starter relay. The clicking noise usually comes from the starter solenoid or relay, so the lack of sound suggests a potential issue with one of these components.

3. Can you jump a car with a bad starter relay?

In most cases, you cannot jumpstart a car with a bad starter relay unless it is repaired. Jumping a car typically relies on a good starter relay to provide the necessary electrical current. If the starter relay is faulty, using jumper wires or boosters may not be effective in starting the car.

4. What happens when a relay starts to fail?

When a relay starts to fail, it can cut off power to the fuel pump and ignition system. This loss of power can result in a no-start condition, where there is no power to the necessary components for the engine to start.

5. What is the most common problem found with a relay failure?

The most common failure mechanisms of relays are contamination and mechanical wear of the internal switching elements. Solid-state relays are generally more reliable and predictable for long-life applications, except for special high voltage and high-temperature applications.

6. How do you unstick a relay?

To unstick a relay, you can try using a burnishing tool and a can of spray contact cleaner. Open the relay, burnish the contacts, and spray them off with contact cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the sticking.

7. Will a relay still click if it's bad?

If you hear or feel the relay click, it indicates that the relay and its wiring are not the problem. However, if there is no clicking noise, it could be due to a faulty relay or a wiring issue.

Editor's Notes

During our car starter relay research, we found 24 car starter relay products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 94,908 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car starter relays list. We found that most customers choose car starter relays with an average price of $12.93.

The car starter relays are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car starter relays, including Nilight, ecocstm, ONLINE LED STORE, Gebildet, EPAuto. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Car Starter Relays Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Nilight Nilight Nilight ecocstm ONLINE LED STORE ONLINE LED STORE Gebildet Gebildet EPAuto ONLINE LED STORE
Connector Type Through Hole Plug-In Through Hole Screw Quick Connect Solder Spade Wired Relay Socket Quick Connect
Contact Material Copper Silver Copper Copper Copper Silver Plated Copper Silver Plated Copper Silver Alloy Brass Silver Silver Plated Copper
Contact Type Normally Closed Spdt Normally Closed Normally Open Normally Open Normally Closed Normally Open Normally Open Spdt ['Normally Open', 'Normally Closed'] Cannot Be the Correct Value for 'Contact.type'. a Single Such as Open' Or Closed' Should Provided Based on Desired Contact Type.
Current Rating 30 Amps 40 Amps 30 Amps 40 Amps 30 Amps 40 Amps 40 Amps 30 Amps 40 Amps 30 Amps
Mounting Type Wall Mount Surface Mount Wall Mount Plug In Mount Panel Mount Surface Mount Socket Mount Mount Socket Mount Screw Mount" or "Surface Mount
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy