Time: 1-2 hrs

Difficulty: moderate

Cost: $50-150 (brand)

WHY REPLACE

The starter assembly doesn't have any routine maintenance or checks associated with it. Failure is often the first warning. However, if you experience intermittent click/no crank/no start symptoms, you better take note. It's common for starters to fail in cold temperatures when mechanical load is high (the engine is cold and doesn't want to turn) and battery output is weak (electrochemical reaction is slowed by cold temps). 

You can sometimes climb under the vehicle and lightly tap on the starter to get it to work. The worn electrical contacts inside might free-up and give you one more start. If you're lucky enough for this to work, you better park where you want to work on it next!

REPLACEMENT

Watch the video below demonstrating the removal and replacement of the starter assembly on a  2007-2013 era Chevy/GMC V8 engine (4.8, 5.3, 6.0). The process is the same for the Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban, and Escalade. 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013.