Ignition Relay Replacement Cost Estimate
Concerned about potentially overspending on replacing your ignition relay? Try MyMechanic for an accurate estimate on the cost of your ignition relay replacement.
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How much does an ignition switch replacement cost?
The typical expense for an ignition switch replacement ranges from 190 to 230, covering 115 to 130 for parts and 80 to 100 for labor. Your vehicle's year and model will influence the exact price.
On average, an ignition relay replacement typically involves a total cost consisting of parts and labor. The exact price varies based on your vehicle's make and model.
The parts cost encompasses a new ignition relay, and potentially additional components like the ignition switch, control module, or car battery. Labor costs include the time it takes for a certified mechanic to inspect your vehicle, diagnose the issue, and perform the ignition relay replacement.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do you need for an ignition relay replacement?
There are three broad categories of ignition systems:
- Conventional (or “contact breaker” or “breaker point”) ignition system
- Electronic ignition system
- Distributorless ignition system
Ignition control modules have been gradually phased out, yet they remain prevalent in numerous vehicles manufactured during the early 2000s.
Here are the primary components of the electronic ignition system and their functions:
- The ignition switch nitiates the circuit, activating the engine when the key is turned or the ignition switch is pushed. Another activation of the ignition switch interrupts the electrical system, halting the engine. Similar to a failing ignition relay, a malfunctioning ignition switch can prevent the car from starting.
- The ignition relay also known as the starter relay or starter solenoid, physically completes the circuit upon receiving the signal from the ignition switch. It typically appears as a small plastic box with multiple metal prongs.
- Ignition coils convert the car battery's 12-volt current into a much higher voltage, ranging from 60,000 to 120,000 volts.
- Ignition cables, also known as spark plug wires transmit the voltage generated by the ignition coils and timed by the distributor caps to the spark plugs.
- Spark plugs create a high-voltage spark across a small gap in each of the engine's cylinders, igniting the air-fuel mixture at the precise moment. These controlled electrical sparks power the engine's operation.
You can find ignition relay parts from popular brands like Bosch, Denso, and ACDelco at local auto parts stores such as AutoZone and NAPA Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and Summit Racing.
OEM parts typically come with a higher price tag compared to aftermarket alternatives but often boast better warranties.For instance, if a certified Toyota mechanic installs a genuine ignition relay in your vehicle, you might receive a 24-month/25,000-mile warranty. The average parts cost tends to be even more elevated for luxury brands like Audi or Mercedes-Benz.
However, some aftermarket performance parts manufacturers provide parts of equal or superior quality.
Several well-known brands offer ignition switch replacement parts, such as Bosch, Denso, and ACDelco. These replacement parts are available at automotive body shops, parts stores, dealerships, and online retailers like AutoZone or Amazon. If you lean towards OEM parts, you can explore your vehicle manufacturer’s official website. Most car makers, including Honda, Chevrolet, Nissan, and others, sell OEM parts online. To ensure you purchase the correct part, consult your owner’s manual for any essential specifications.
Where can I get my ignition relay replaced?
Choosing a local repair shop can sometimes feel like a daunting task due to limited information. Questions about fair pricing and mechanic reliability often arise. aims to empower you by providing comprehensive fair price estimates for over 2,500 trusted auto repair shops nationwide.
With MyMechanic you gain access to real hourly labor rates, diagnostic fees, and verified user reviews. It's everything you appreciate about MyMechanic, but tailored for car repairs. Download the app today to compare prices from reputable businesses, such as those listed below.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace an ignition relay?
Replacing an ignition relay demands confidence in handling car electronics, especially the ignition system. It's essential not to underestimate the risk and complexity associated with working on batteries; our explanations are intentionally simplified for clarity.
- Testthe starter relay by connecting a multimeter to a car battery terminal and measuring the current
- Disconnectthe car battery cables
- Removethe mounting screws, cables, and wires of the old external relay and remove it from the fender or firewall
- OR removethe cables, motor housing, wires, and bolts securing the internal relay to the starter motor
- Installtthe new ignition relay, either external or internal, and replace the mounting equipment
- Testthe car’s ignition system
What will a bad ignition relay do?
Because an ignition relay plays a crucial role in maintaining a complete ignition circuit, a faulty one can lead to various ignition, engine, and power-related issues. Ignoring the need for a repair could result in:
What is an ignition relay replacement?
An ignition relay replacement addresses the electronic component responsible for activating your vehicle’s ignition system. Faulty relays can impact the lifespan of your car battery and the efficiency of the engine. Since relays cannot be repaired, the old starter relay must be replaced with a new one.
What are the symptoms of a bad ignition relay?
Common symptoms of a faulty ignition relay often revolve around power, engine efficiency, and starting your vehicle. These may include:
- Whining noise:If the starter relay remains closed, the starter motor won't disengage, resulting in a continuous whining noise.
- Clicking noises:A damaged relay struggling to complete the ignition circuit may produce clicking noises as the current sparks and sputters.
- Low car battery:Jump-starting your car in the mornings could indicate that the starter relay is stuck in the ON position, draining the battery overnight.
- Inconsistent starting:A failed ignition relay can prevent the ignition system circuit from closing properly, resulting in inconsistent starting or failure to start your car.
- Engine stalls:A faulty relay may interrupt the electrical spark that ignites fuel in the engine cylinders, leading to sudden power loss and engine stalling.
How often do you have to replace an ignition relay?
The ignition relay is intended to last the life of your car, but heat, vibration, and power surges (or shorts) can shorten its lifespan.Additionally, a faulty starter relay can sometimes be attributed to another failed component. For instance, if the relay is displaced slightly, it can create a small gap that leads to continuous arcing of electricity, ultimately melting the plastic.
Can I replace a starter relay myself?
Replacing a starter relay is a moderately challenging do-it-yourself task that necessitates basic equipment and a degree of familiarity with electronics and your vehicle's ignition system.Ensure to disconnect the battery before working on your car's ignition system, as the installation location of the ignition relay may vary depending on your vehicle model, whether internal or external.
FAQs
A faulty relay, whether burnt out or stuck in the OFF position, can prevent your car from starting by disrupting the circuit needed to kickstart the engine. If your car does start but you hear a clicking sound, it's likely due to a faulty relay failing to maintain a consistent connection.
A faulty ignition relay can cause battery drain. Similar to headlights, if the relay becomes stuck in the ON position, it will continuously draw power even when the car is turned off. If you notice your replacement car battery doesn't last as expected, it may be wise to purchase a new relay.
Various factors such as excess heat, power surges, improper alignment, or vibration can contribute to the failure of an ignition relay. Problems with one electrical component in your car can often lead to issues with others. For instance, an oil leak from the engine into the alternator could cause a short circuit that damages the relay. Similarly, if the fuse box is loose, the relay might sustain damage from knocking against other car parts.
