When the temperature plummets, the last thing you want is a sluggish or non-responsive starter. Cold weather thickens engine oil and places immense strain on your vehicle’s starting system, demanding a component built for reliability and power. A failing starter can leave you stranded, turning a simple morning into a frustrating ordeal.
Choosing the right starter is crucial for dependable cold-weather performance. ACDelco offers a range of starters, from exact GM Original Equipment replacements to robust Gold and Silver series options, all engineered to meet rigorous standards. This roundup highlights the best ACDelco starters designed to deliver the consistent cranking power you need, ensuring your vehicle starts reliably even on the coldest days.
Our Top ACDelco Starter Picks for Cold Weather
- ACDelco 12740952 GM Original Equipment Starter
- ACDelco Gold 337-1138 (19298451) Starter
- ACDelco Gold 337-1027 (88877126) Starter
- ACDelco Gold 337-1123 Starter
- GM Genuine Parts 12645298 Starter
- ACDelco Gold 336-1845 Starter, Remanufactured
- ACDelco Gold 336-1007 Starter, Remanufactured
- ACDelco Silver 336-1875 Starter Motor
- ACDelco Gold 336-2093 Starter Assembly
ACDelco 12740952 GM Original Equipment Starter
For vehicle owners seeking the pinnacle of a factory-fit replacement, this ACDelco GM Original Equipment starter is the ideal choice. It is 100 percent newly manufactured to be an exact match for your GM vehicle’s original starter, ensuring seamless integration and performance. This guarantees that the starter is designed to handle the specific demands of your engine, including the high torque required for cold weather starting.
By using a component that is identical to the one originally installed, you maintain the vehicle’s designed performance and reliability. This starter is built to the same specifications, providing the peace of mind that comes with genuine GM parts. It is a straightforward solution for restoring your vehicle’s starting system to its original, dependable state.
ACDelco Gold 337-1138 Starter
The ACDelco Gold 337-1138 starter represents a premium aftermarket option engineered for enhanced durability. Manufactured under ISO Quality Standards, this unit guarantees consistent quality and reliable performance. Every component is 100% new, which helps provide improved performance and a longer service life compared to remanufactured alternatives.
This model includes specific engineering enhancements to its internal components, making it a more efficient and robust unit for your vehicle. These improvements are particularly beneficial in cold weather, where the starter motor must overcome increased resistance. Choosing a Gold series starter means investing in a component designed to exceed standard replacement expectations.
ACDelco Gold 337-1027 Starter
Built with an aluminum mounting block and housing, the ACDelco Gold 337-1027 starter is a durable and efficient choice. Like other Gold series models, it is made with 100% new components under strict ISO Quality Standards. This commitment to quality ensures that the starter delivers reliable performance from the first turn of the key.
The use of all-new parts means there is no wear and tear from previous use, providing a fresh and powerful start for your engine. The engineering enhancements integrated into this model focus on maximizing efficiency and power output. This is a solid option for drivers who want the assurance of a new, high-quality starter built to last.
ACDelco Gold 337-1123 Starter
Designed for consistent performance, the ACDelco Gold 337-1123 starter is manufactured to meet high-quality benchmarks. The adherence to ISO Quality Standards during manufacturing ensures that every unit delivers the same reliable operation. All components within this starter are 100% new, eliminating the variables associated with used or remanufactured parts.
This model benefits from the latest engineering enhancements, which refine the internal components for greater efficiency and torque. For cold weather starting, this translates to faster engine cranking and reduced strain on the vehicle’s electrical system. It is a professionally recommended part that balances performance with long-term value.
GM Genuine Parts 12645298 Starter
As a genuine GM part, the 12645298 starter is the official recommended replacement for your vehicle’s original factory component. It is 100% newly manufactured to be an exact match, ensuring perfect fit and function. This direct replacement is tested to meet all original specification requirements, which is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s engineered performance.
The remarkable durability of this starter comes from rigorous testing that validates its ability to perform under demanding conditions. When you install a GM Genuine Parts starter, you are choosing the part that GM engineers specifically intended for your vehicle. This option provides maximum confidence in both compatibility and reliability for all-season starting.
ACDelco Gold 336-1845 Starter, Remanufactured
This ACDelco Gold 336-1845 starter offers a reliable, cost-effective solution through its professional-grade remanufacturing process. It is important to note that this is not simply a rebuilt unit; it undergoes a consistent quality process that includes replacing key wear components. This includes new bronze sintered and oil-impregnated armature bushings for smooth operation and longevity.
The solenoid contacts are also new, featuring copper terminals and plated hardware to ensure strong electrical connections. This attention to detail in the remanufacturing process restores the starter to a like-new condition, making it a trustworthy option for dependable cold-weather cranking without the cost of a brand-new unit.
ACDelco Gold 336-1007 Starter, Remanufactured
Another excellent remanufactured option from the Gold series, the 336-1007 model is processed with consistent quality controls. The remanufacturing goes beyond a simple rebuild, addressing critical wear points to ensure reliable performance. New armature bushings and solenoid contacts are installed to meet specific performance standards.
This approach effectively renews the starter, providing a component that performs reliably while offering significant value. For budget-conscious consumers who do not want to compromise on quality, this ACDelco Gold Remanufactured starter represents a balanced choice for ensuring your vehicle starts properly in cold conditions.
ACDelco Silver 336-1875 Starter Motor
The ACDelco Silver 336-1875 Starter Motor is designed as a dependable economic replacement option. Silver series parts offer professional quality for a wide range of vehicles, providing a solid balance of performance and affordability. This makes it a suitable choice for those seeking a reliable replacement without the premium cost of Gold or GM OE parts.
While specific features for this model are not listed, it is built to ACDelco’s standards for its Silver line, which focuses on delivering reliable service. It is a practical solution for getting a vehicle back on the road with a starter that is capable of handling everyday driving needs, including cooler temperatures.
ACDelco Gold 336-2093 Starter Assembly
This ACDelco Gold 336-2093 Starter Assembly is another professional-grade option from the reputable Gold series. As a complete assembly, it is ready for installation and designed to restore starting performance to a high standard. Gold series parts are known for their use of new components and engineering improvements.
Choosing this starter assembly means you are selecting a part that has been developed with enhanced durability and efficiency in mind. It is engineered to provide consistent cranking power, which is essential for reliable starts in cold weather. This model is a strong contender for anyone needing a robust and long-lasting starter.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best ACDelco Starter for Cold Weather Starting
When I’m picking out a new starter, especially for dealing with cold weather, I don’t just grab the first one I see. The bitter cold is brutal on a car’s electrical system. Engine oil thickens, and the battery’s power output drops. A weak starter simply won’t have the guts to crank the engine fast enough to get it running. That’s why I focus on ACDelco’s more robust lines. Their Professional series is a solid starting point for most daily drivers, but when the mercury really plummets, I look toward their Gold Bracket or even their Heavy-Duty lines. These are built with better materials and more powerful motors specifically to handle the increased load of a cold start.
The first thing I check is the cranking power, often indicated by the torque rating. More torque means the starter motor can physically turn the engine over with more force, which is exactly what you need when the oil is like molasses. I also pay close attention to the solenoid. A high-quality solenoid ensures a strong, reliable electrical connection to deliver maximum power from the battery to the starter motor. A weak solenoid can cause that dreaded “click” sound without any cranking, a common cold-weather failure.
Beyond the specs, I always consider the vehicle’s specific needs. My old truck with a big V8 needs a lot more oomph than my friend’s compact car. For larger engines, I immediately look at ACDelco’s heavy-duty options. They often feature a higher horsepower motor and more durable internal components like copper alloy contacts in the solenoid, which resist wear and pitting better than standard materials. This durability is key because every hard start puts a strain on the starter; a heavy-duty unit is built to take that punishment day after day.
Finally, I make sure the starter is a direct fit. ACDelco is great for this, as their parts are engineered to GM specifications. This means the bolt pattern, the number of teeth on the pinion gear, and the electrical connections should all line up perfectly with my vehicle. A proper fit prevents misalignment and premature wear, ensuring all that power is transferred efficiently to the engine’s flywheel. Getting the right one of the 9 best ACDelco starter for cold weather starting options for your specific vehicle is the final, crucial step to ensuring reliable winter mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my starter struggle more in cold weather?
It’s a perfect storm of physics working against your car. First, your engine oil gets much thicker when it’s cold, creating more resistance for the engine’s internal parts. This means the starter motor has to work significantly harder to turn the engine over. Second, your car battery’s chemical reaction slows down in the cold, reducing its ability to deliver the massive burst of power the starter needs. A starter that was just barely getting by in the summer can fail completely when faced with these winter challenges.
What’s the difference between an ACDelco Professional and an ACDelco Gold Bracket starter?
This is a key distinction. The ACDelco Professional line is their OE-service part line, meaning it’s designed to meet the original manufacturer’s specifications for a reliable replacement. It’s a good, solid part. The Gold Bracket series, however, is their premium line. These starters often feature upgraded materials, like enhanced brushes and bearings, and are generally built for better performance and longer life. For harsh conditions, the Gold Bracket series typically offers that extra margin of reliability and power you’re looking for.
Can I install a more powerful ACDelco starter than what originally came on my car?
Generally, yes, as long as it’s a direct-fit replacement for your vehicle’s make and model. ACDelco designs their starters to bolt right into the designated space and properly engage with the flywheel. If you have a larger engine or live in an extremely cold climate, opting for a heavy-duty model from their lineup is a smart move. It will physically fit the same way but will deliver more cranking torque. Just ensure you’re selecting the part number intended for your specific vehicle to avoid any installation issues.
Besides the starter, what else should I check for better cold-weather starting?
The starter is only one part of the system. Your battery is its partner, and it’s the most common point of failure. I always recommend getting your battery tested before winter hits. Using a thinner, winter-grade engine oil can also reduce cranking resistance. Making sure your battery terminals and the starter’s main power cable are clean and tight is a simple, free check that ensures all the available power is getting where it needs to go. A combination of a strong battery and a robust starter is the best defense.
How long should a quality ACDelco starter typically last?
There’s no single answer, as it depends on your driving habits, climate, and the specific model you choose. However, a well-made starter from a reputable line like ACDelco Gold Bracket should last for many years. In a harsh, cold-weather environment with frequent short trips that don’t allow the engine to fully warm up, the starter undergoes more stress. This can shorten its lifespan compared to a vehicle used primarily for long highway drives in a temperate climate. Proper installation is also a major factor in its longevity.