How to Pull A Starter at a Junkyard: Tools & Tips

General guidance, not instructions for your exact car. Bolt sizes, steps and tools vary by year, make and model. Watch a video for your exact vehicle and follow the yard's safety rules.

Tools to bring

Socket set with long extensions and a universal joint, breaker bar, 10mm and 13mm wrenches (common sizes, not universal), flat screwdriver, gloves, eye protection.

Typical steps

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable first, even in a yard car.
2. Find the starter where the engine meets the transmission. On many cars it's easiest from underneath; cars at U-Pull yards are already on stands, so never crawl under one that looks unstable.
3. Photograph and unplug the small signal wire, then remove the nut on the big battery cable.
4. Remove the two or three mounting bolts. The top bolt is often the hardest: use extensions and a U-joint.
5. Wiggle the starter out, nose first. Keep its bolts with it.

Before you pay

Check the gear teeth on the end for chips or wear and spin the gear by hand; it should move freely. Ask whether the yard offers a short exchange warranty.

▶ Search YouTube for "how to remove starter" Add your year, make and model to the search for the best match.

See also: What to bring to a U-Pull yard · Safety and etiquette.