81x
X'ing Fixing
Sorry for late reply, but you got great answers from experienced guys.you recommend a gear reduction to replace what may be an original starter? The local auto shop has $145 hour fees for ‘Euro’ cars, and are telling me they may have to drop either the transmission or engine to get to the starter. Sound right? Seems extreme.
Regard that shop, to me it sounds like:
1. They never heard of this car, seeing an unconventional layout with tight engine bay made them come up with this.
2. They don't want this project and trying to push you out. And if you insist, at least they will make good money.
Either way, it's your sign to find another shop.
I also didn't replaced it myself and my guy told me in advance that it's quite simple.
For the starter itself, well, i've never had a good working starter from the day i bought the X so can't compare, but the reasons also mentioned here pushed me to this purchase and I don't regret it, despite the large price differences.
Good luck anyway.