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Tough Knuckles Automotive

Starter Repair & Rebuilds in Holland, OH

The starter is a small motor that spins your engine to get it going. You use it every time you turn the key or push the button. When it fails, the engine will not turn over.

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Electrical diagnosis: $125, credited to your repair · Done at our Holland shop

The starter is a small motor that spins your engine to get it going. You use it every time you turn the key or push the button. When it fails, the engine will not turn over.

At Tough Knuckles Automotive we have rebuilt many starters over the years. Many jobs like this can be done the same day when the part is in stock. Our starter rebuilds carry a 1-year warranty.

Know the signs

Signs you might notice

  • You turn the key and hear one loud click, but the engine does not spin.
  • The engine cranks slow one day and fine the next.
  • Nothing happens at all when you turn the key.
  • You hear a grinding sound while the car tries to start.
  • The dash lights stay bright but the engine will not turn.
  • It starts fine when cold but not after the engine is hot.

This is a general guide, not a diagnosis or repair quote. We need to inspect your car to confirm the problem and price.

What's behind it

Common causes

  • Worn brushes and a worn armature inside the starter after years of use.
  • A bad starter solenoid, the switch that sends power to the motor.
  • Heat from the exhaust that cooks the starter and makes it quit when warm.
  • Loose or rusty cables that cannot carry enough power to the starter.
  • Worn teeth on the starter gear or the engine flywheel.

How it works

How we handle it

1

You bring the car in and we listen to how it acts when you try to start it.

2

We check the battery and cables first, since a weak battery sounds a lot like a bad starter.

3

We pull the starter and rebuild it with new brushes, bushings, and a fresh solenoid, or fit a solid replacement.

4

We bolt it back in, start the car several times, and make sure it cranks strong every time.

What we check

  • How many volts reach the starter while you hold the key.
  • The battery charge and the tightness of both battery cables.
  • The starter gear teeth and the ring gear on the engine for chips.
  • The ground strap between the engine and the body.
  • The ignition switch and starter relay for weak contact.

Why this matters

A starter usually warns you before it dies. Slow cranks and odd clicks are your hint. If you wait, one day the car will not start at all, often when you are away from home. You may need a tow to get it here. Handling it when the signs first show saves you that trouble and cost.

Your next step

Car just clicks or will not crank?

Note what you hear — one click, rapid clicking, grinding, or nothing — and whether the dash lights stay bright. That tells us a lot before the car arrives. If a jump gets it running, drive it straight to Holland and leave it running until you park. If it will not start at all, call us first and we will help you decide if a tow makes sense.

Electrical diagnosis: $125. If you have us do the repair, we credit that fee toward your final bill. You get the price before any work starts.

Call (419) 392-5926 Request service

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a starter and the battery?
The battery holds the power. The starter is the motor that uses that power to spin the engine. If the lights are bright but the engine will not turn, the starter is the more likely problem.
Can I still drive the car?
Once it starts, the starter is not used again until you shut off the engine. The risk is that it may not start the next time. If it is acting up, bring it in before you get stuck.
Can you do it the same day?
Often, yes. If the right starter is in stock, we can often finish it the same day, depending on how busy we are. Odd parts may add a day.
Is there a warranty?
Yes. Starter rebuilds come with a 1-year warranty. If the rebuilt starter fails within that year, bring it back and we will take care of it.
How long does a starter last?
A starter often lasts 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Lots of short trips and many cold starts can wear it out sooner.
Do you offer a military discount?
Yes. Active-duty service members and veterans get 15% off labor. Let us know when you drop off the car and bring your ID.

Reviews

Starter Repair & Rebuilds customers, in their words

5.0/5 · 3 Google reviews
Read all on Google
"Reasonable price. Did a wonderful job on putting a starter on the truck. They are very pleasant people to talk with and very helpful."
Heather MillsJuly 2026 · Google
"These people are super legit - I normally don't leave reviews but Corey and Ashley did me such a huge service fixing my..."
xMorlockJuly 2026 · Google
"Great price. Cory is an amazing mechanic and handled my fiancée's car with care! Him and his wife are super nice and super friendly...."
Alex NomichitMay 2026 · Google

Visit the Shop

Where to Bring Your Car for Starter Repair & Rebuilds

All work is done at our shop. Drop-off is easy, and there's a key drop for early or after-hours.

Address
Address 932 Holland Park Blvd
Holland, OH 43528
Hours
Hours Monday-Friday, 9 AM-6 PM
Closed weekends
Get Directions Call (419) 392-5926

Drop-off shop in Holland. Call first and we will help you plan the visit.

Tough Knuckles Automotive location

932 Holland Park Blvd, Holland, OH 43528

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Ready when you are

Tell Us What Your Car Is Doing

We will test it, give you a straight price, and only start once you say go. No pressure, no jargon.

Not sure what it needs? That is okay. Describe the symptoms and we will help you figure out the next step.

Get a Quote Call (419) 392-5926

30+ years of automotive experience · Family-owned and woman-owned · 15% military discount on labor

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