Alternative Starters?
 

Anyone know if we can replace our oem starters with any other starter? Something better, or cheaper, etc? Or is it something that is specially designed for each car. All the threads I see on Starters are about getting the updated starter; didn't see any mention of aftermarket starters, or different model starters from other cars.

The upgraded starter is more than adequate for the car. If you have it, you should be good to go. If you don't have it, and are experiencing slow cranking, tell your dealer about your concern and ask that they apply the appropriate TSB. See the difference in the original and upgraded in the pic.

I'm interested too. They won't replace my old one because it's out of warranty....even though they should have done it a long time ago.

They want $400 for the new starter if I wanted to do the job myself, but I see rebuilt ones (I'm assuming mazda-made? maybe not?) for the 8 on different website for ~$100

Are these good?
http://www.racepages.com/parts/starter/mazda/rx8.html
Someone should call them and ask what serial number is/was on it.

I really don't know a thing about this stuff....heh yay for rx8club.com

Yeah, that's why I'm asking, I'm in the same boat, being out of warranty and all. Though I'll ask them about it, when I'm there this week. They have been fair with me before.

Those starters you linked are way cheap, wonder what the deal is with them. Probably fail in a month or something. Sound too good to be true.

Hey guys, I would suggest going with the upgraded OEM starter (N3Z1) rather than the aftermarket. I considered those aftermarkets but thought they were fishy (price-wise). I'm sure you guys can get OEMs for cheaper than 400. I got mine for 275 canadian at the dealership (and usually Canadians get screwed by markup).

In anycase, at least I've survived through winter. I probly can hold off till next winter.

just remember, it's easier to work on your car in 75 degree weather than in 35 degree weather.

let's not forget the story about the ants and the grasshopper.

Ultimate irony - my heated seat doesnt work but I'm sure I can fix it. I keep saying "I'll fix it when it's warmer out and I can work" and then it gets warmer and I forget......

lol... i guess that's true