How to Replace a Starter Relay

Everyone dreads turning the key and having the car not start. Oftentimes this means that your battery is dead. However, if the battery is drawing power, the problem is likely the starter relay. A simple starter relay test will let you know if you need to replace it. This electrical component is not a difficult auto repair. This article will walk you through the entire testing and replacement process.

Directions

1

Gather Your Tools

Before starting the repair, you want to gather everything you will need. To test the starter relay, you will need a volt meter and jack stand. If you have to replace the starter relay, you will need a new starter relay, socket set, and torque wrench.

2

Jack Up Your Vehicle

You will need to jack up the vehicle to access the relay in most cars. Make sure that you use jack stands. A jack is not enough to hold the car for a car repair.

3

Test the Starter Relay

You need to attach the volt meter to the positive connection on the starter relay. This will be the braided cable. Once you have attached the volt meter, start the car. If you get no reading, you will need to replace the starter relay. If you get a reading of 12 volts, then it is not your starter relay that is the problem. If the reading is less than 12 volts, then it is likely your battery or ignition switch that needs replacement.

4

Disconnect Battery

If you need to replace the starter relay, the first step is to disconnect the battery. The easiest way to do this is to disconnect the negative battery cable. This will be the black one. All you need to do is disconnect it from the battery.

5

Disconnect Starter

The next step is to disconnect the starter. It will be held in its mounting by several bolts. Use your torque wrench and socket set to remove these. The starter will also be connected to a support bracket. You want to remove this as well. Once the starter is disconnected, remove it from the mount.

6

Disconnect Field Coil Strap

Locate the braided wire that is coming off the starter relay. You will need to disconnect this cable. This is the same one that you tested earlier.

7

Remove Old Starter Relay

You should now be able to easily access the relay. You want to disconnect it from all connections. Make note of how it is connected so that you can hook up the new one easily. There will be several mounting bolts that need removed. There will also likely be several springs. Make sure that you know their position so that you can put them back in place.

8

Install New Starter Relay

Now that you have removed the old relay, you are ready to install the new one. Place it back in the mounting bracket, ensuring that the plunger and springs are aligned correctly. Once they are aligned, tighten the mounting bolts to hold it in place.

9

Install Starter

The next step is to re-install the starter. First, reattach the field coil strap. Then, place the starter back into the mount. You want to attach it to the starter support bracket as well. Tighten all bolts so that it is held in place securely.

10

Finish the Repair

The last step is to finish all reconnections and test the repair. Reattach the negative battery cable to the car and lower the vehicle off the jack stand. Finally, attempt to start your car. If it starts, the repair has been completed successfully.

This is the procedure to perform a starter relay test and replacement. This repair is not difficult and will save you a bundle versus taking it to an auto repair shop. The starter relay is a common component to fail. If this occurs, all you need to do is follow this simple replacement procedure.