Best Car Starters & Parts of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Car starters and parts are essential components of any vehicle's ignition system, enabling the engine to start and run smoothly. These parts include the starter motor, ignition switch, and battery cables, among others. The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over, while the ignition switch activates the starter and sends a signal to the engine control module. Battery cables connect the battery to the starter and provide the necessary electrical power to start the engine. These parts are crucial for the proper functioning of any vehicle and should be regularly maintained and replaced as needed to ensure reliable performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Proform Hi-Torque Starter Cover #TOP 1
Proform Hi-Torque Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Proform 66258 Hi Torque Mini Starter Cover #TOP 2
Proform 66258 Hi Torque Mini Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CVR Performance Protorque Starter for Chevy Cover #TOP 3
CVR Performance Protorque Starter for Chevy
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Car Starters & Parts

#TOP 1

Proform Hi-Torque Starter

66268
Proform Hi-Torque Starter Cover
Proform 66268 Hi-Torque Starter

This Proform Hi-Torque Starter has a package dimension of 16.764 H x 25.146 L x 17.526 W (centimetres) and a weight of 3.832 kilograms. It is designed to fit specific vehicles and is made in Taiwan. This starter is a great choice for those who need a reliable and efficient starter for their vehicle.

What We Like
Reliable and efficient
Vehicle-specific fit
Reasonable package dimensions
#TOP 2

Proform 66258 Hi Torque Mini Starter

66258
Proform 66258 Hi Torque Mini Starter Cover
Proform 66258 Hi Torque Mini Starter

The Proform Mini Starter is a high-torque starter designed to provide reliable and powerful performance for your vehicle. With its compact size, this starter is easy to install and fits perfectly in tight spaces. The package dimensions of 25.654 cms L x 16.764 cms W x 16.51 cms H ensure a convenient and hassle-free installation process. Whether you're starting your vehicle in cold weather or dealing with a worn-out stock starter, the Proform Mini Starter is here to help. Its high torque output ensures quick and efficient starting every time, while the one-piece design eliminates the need for shimming. Made in Taiwan, this starter is built to last and deliver exceptional performance for years to come.

What We Like
Reliable and powerful performance
Compact size for easy installation
Convenient package dimensions
#TOP 3

CVR Performance Protorque Starter for Chevy

CVR Performance Protorque Starter for Chevy Cover
CVR Performance 5323 153 and 168 Tooth Protorque Starter for Chevy

The CVR Performance Protorque Starter for Chevy V8 comes with an adjustable 4:1 gear reduction ratio that enhances engine cranking power. It fits specific vehicles and weighs 12.11 pounds. This starter is designed to improve the performance of your Chevy engine, providing a reliable and efficient start every time you turn the key.

What We Like
Adjustable 4:1 gear reduction ratio enhances engine cranking power.
Fits specific vehicles for improved performance.
Weighs 12.11 pounds, making it easy to install.
#TOP 4

DB Electrical Starter for John Deere

410-52301
DB Electrical Starter for John Deere Cover
DB Electrical 410-52301 Starter Compatible with/Replacement for John Deere 636M, 648M, 648R, 652B, 652E, 652M, 652R, 661R, W36R, W48R, W52R, WH36A, AUC12656, 19169N

This 100% new aftermarket starter is built to meet OEM specifications for Cub Cadet, John Deere, and Kawasaki. It comes with a 12 voltage, CCW rotation, 10 teeth, and DD starter type. The product replaces OEM numbers such as DENSO 428000-6600, John Deere AUC12656, and Kawasaki 21163-0754. It is compatible with/replacement for various John Deere and Kawasaki models. The 1-year warranty ensures a replacement anytime within a year of order.

What We Like
100% new aftermarket starter built to meet OEM specifications
Compatible with various John Deere and Kawasaki models
1-year warranty with replacement within a year of order
#TOP 5

Powermaster 9613 Mastertorque Starter

9613
Black
Powermaster 9613 Mastertorque Starter Cover
Powermaster 9613 Mastertorque Starter, Black

The Powermaster 9613 Mastertorque Starter, also known as the Powermaster Starter, is a vehicle-specific starter that offers exceptional performance and reliability. With its compact design and easy installation, this starter is perfect for any car enthusiast. The package dimensions of 27.686 H x 26.162 L x 26.162 W (centimeters) make it a convenient choice for those looking for a space-saving solution. Additionally, the country of origin being the United States ensures high-quality craftsmanship. Weighing only 9.45 pounds, this starter is lightweight yet powerful, providing a smooth and efficient start every time. Whether you're upgrading your vehicle or replacing a worn-out starter, the Powermaster 9613 Mastertorque Starter is a top choice.

What We Like
Exceptional performance
Compact design
Easy installation
#TOP 6

Powermaster 9604 Starter

Power Master
9604
Black
Powermaster 9604 Starter Cover
POWERMASTER - Str Master Infi-Clock™ Ford [SB] 2 Ear MTG All M/T w/164T Flyw 3/8" Depth 14:1 Black Wrinkle

The Powermaster Starter 9604 is a reliable starter designed to enhance your vehicle's performance. With dimensions of 12.5 inches long, 5.5 inches high, and 7.5 inches wide, it fits snugly in most engine compartments, ensuring easy installation. Weighing in at 12 pounds, it delivers a solid performance without being overly heavy. Proudly made in the United States, it offers quality craftsmanship that you can trust. The part number 9604 helps you easily identify this specific model, ensuring you get the right starter for your needs.

What We Like
Compact size for easy installation
Lightweight design
Quality American craftsmanship
Easy model identification
#TOP 7

MSD 5095 DynaForce Starter

MSD
5095
MSD 5095 DynaForce Starter Cover
MSD Dynaforce 5095 Starter - Red- SBC/BBC

The MSD 5095 DynaForce Starter is a powerful starter with a gear reduction of 4.4:1 and a 5 HP motor, making it capable of providing plenty of torque for high compression. Its billet mounting block can be clocked, and the downsized design helps with clearance issues.

What We Like
Powerful 5 HP motor
High torque for high compression
Billet mounting block can be clocked
Downsized design helps clearance issues
#TOP 8

Ford Racing High Torque Mini Starter

Ford
M-11000-B51
Ford Racing High Torque Mini Starter Cover
Ford Racing (M-11000-B51) 1.4kW High Torque Mini Starter

The Ford Racing High Torque Mini Starter is made in the United States and comes with special battery cables. It has a package weight of 10.2 pounds and package dimensions of 23.622 L x 13.716 H x 35.306 W (centimeters). This starter is designed to provide high torque, making it ideal for racing and high-performance vehicles.

What We Like
Made in the United States
Comes with special battery cables
Provides high torque
#TOP 9

ACDelco Gold 336-1578 Starter

336-1578
ACDelco Gold 336-1578 Starter Cover
ACDelco Gold 336-1578 (19135432) Starter

The ACDelco Gold Starter is carefully remanufactured to meet high standards, ensuring you get a reliable part rather than just a simple rebuild. It features new bronze sintered and oil-impregnated armature bushings, which help reduce wear and improve durability, meaning your engine starts smoothly and lasts longer. The solenoid contacts are replaced with new ones that include copper terminals and plated hardware, offering better electrical conductivity and preventing corrosion for consistent performance. Each unit is thoroughly tested and inspected to make sure it meets quality and design expectations, giving you confidence that your vehicle will start every time.

What We Like
High-quality remanufacturing
Durable armature bushings
New solenoid contacts
Performance-tested
#TOP 10

ProForm 66257 Hi Torque Starter

66257
ProForm 66257 Hi Torque Starter Cover
Proform 66257 Pont/Olds Hi Torque Starter

The ProForm Hi Torque Starter is designed with precise vehicle compatibility, ensuring it fits your specific model for a smooth installation. Its compact package size makes handling and storage easier, while the weight of just over 11 pounds means it’s manageable to carry and install without strain. Made in Taiwan, this starter reflects reliable manufacturing standards. With these features, the ProForm Hi Torque Starter offers you a dependable and convenient solution for replacing or upgrading your vehicle’s starter system.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Compact packaging
Lightweight design
Reliable manufacturing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the parts of a starter?

The parts of a starter include the armature, commutator, brushes, solenoid, plunger, lever fork, pinion, and field coils. These components work together to initiate the engine's starting process.

2. How do I know if my starter is bad?

Signs of a bad starter include the engine not turning over when you try to start the car, unusual noises like clinking or grinding, intermittent starting problems, and smoke coming from under the hood. If you experience these symptoms, it's likely that your starter has a problem and may need to be replaced.

3. What parts do I need to replace a starter?

To replace a starter, you will need sockets and a socket wrench or torque wrench, screwdrivers, pliers, extra mounting bolt or starter bolt pieces, battery terminal puller, and drive-on ramps, jack, or jack stands. These tools will help you properly remove and install the new starter.

4. Will my car run with a bad starter?

No, a car will not run with a bad starter. The starter is responsible for getting the engine running, and without a properly working starter relay and motor, the vehicle won't start. If you have a bad starter, you may need to have your car towed to a mechanic for repair.

5. Can I drive my car if the starter is bad?

In a pinch, you may be able to start your vehicle with a bad starter or solenoid. However, it is not recommended to drive the car in this condition. It's best to have the issue properly diagnosed and repaired by a mechanic to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

6. What usually fails on a starter?

Common causes of faulty starters include faulty electrical connections, a stiff or faulty solenoid switch (engaging relay), electric motor damage, and damage to the single-pinion gear, starter pinion, or freewheel. These issues can cause the starter to fail and require replacement.

Editor's Notes

During our car starters & part research, we found 24 car starters & part products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,607 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car starters & parts list. We found that most customers choose car starters & parts with an average price of $207.06.

The car starters & parts are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car starters & parts, including ProForm, CVR Performance, DB Electrical, Powermaster, Power Master. 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.