NA Miata Starter Replacement DIY

There are very few things that can cause a crank-no-start condition on an NA Miata. If you turn the key and here a “click” the most likely culprits are your battery, starter, or main relay. Fortunately all of them are relatively easy to replace, and you can save a lot of money by doing this yourself!

Estimated Mechanic Cost (Parts + Labor)	Parts Cost	DIY Savings
$800	$140	$660

Tools Required:

Jack and jack stands
21 mm socket and breaker bar (or electric / pneumatic impact wrench)
10, 12, 14 mm sockets
3/8 ratchet and extensions
- a pack of extensions with universal / swivel joints like this is HIGHLY recommended

Parts Required:

Starter motor

Instructions:

Loosen the 21 mm lug nuts on the front right (passenger side) wheel.
Raise the vehicle and secure it safely on jack stands. Finish removing the front passenger lug nuts and remove the wheel.
Disconnect the battery by loosening and wiggling off the clamp on the negative terminal.
Locate the starter. It is on the passenger side of the car, back behind the oil filter.

View of the oil filter from inside the passenger’s side wheel well

5. Disconnect the electrical connector from the starter solenoid. The connector slides right on to the solenoid so just give it a firm pull backwards and it should pop off. It may be easier to access this wire from the engine bay by reaching in underneath the intake manifold.

6. The starter is held in place with 3 bolts, with the bottom bolt having a nut on it.