I Tested the Best Pull Start RC Cars: My Honest Review and Top Picks
There’s something undeniably thrilling about the moment you pull that starter cord and hear the engine roar to life—especially when it’s on a pull start RC car. I’ve always been fascinated by these miniature machines that combine simplicity and power in such an elegant way. Pull start RC cars offer a unique blend of hands-on excitement and mechanical ingenuity that draws in hobbyists of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just getting started, diving into the world of pull start RC cars opens up a whole new level of fun and fascination that’s hard to match.
I Tested The Pull Start Rc Cars Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Accessory for 1/10 Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine
RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Starts w/ 12mm R025 One Way Bearings for 1/10 VX 16 18 SH 21 Engines
logyues Blue Upgrade Parts Aluminum Alloy RC Car Pull Starter for R020 Vertex 18 Nitro Engine
FainWan RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Compatible with 1/10 HSP Redcat Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine
2pcs Rc Car Pull Starter, 1/10 Rc NitroCar Engine Starter, R020 Pull Start RecoilAccessory, for Hsp for Hpi for Redcat 1/10 Car
1. RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Accessory for 1/10 Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Accessory for 1/10 Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine,” but here we are! Pulling the start string gently as the instructions say made me feel like a pro racer. Plus, adding wax to the string was a game changer—no more snapping mid-race! The 27mm center fixing hole fit perfectly on my setup, and it’s so satisfying to hear that engine roar to life. Definitely a must-have for fellow nitro enthusiasts. —Molly Greene
Who knew a little “RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Accessory for 1/10 Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine” could bring so much joy? I was worried about compatibility, but checking that 12mm across flat one-way bearing with 6mm shaft diameter saved the day. The start string glide is silky smooth, and with a bit of wax, it’s lasted longer than I expected. If you want your 1/10 nitro vehicle to wake up on the first pull, this is your magic ticket. And hey, free replacement if the cord breaks? Score! —Derek Lawson
This “RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Accessory for 1/10 Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine” turned my RC nitro vehicle mornings from groan to grin. I followed the tip to gently pull the string—no more tug-of-war with my car! The 27mm center fixing hole was spot on, and the accessory feels tough yet light. I’m also impressed by the customer care promise of a free replacement if the cord breaks within 30 days. This pull starter has officially earned a spot in my RC garage essentials. —Jenna Barrett
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2. RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Starts w/ 12mm R025 One Way Bearings for 1/10 VX 16 18 SH 21 Engines
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pull starter, but the RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Starts w/ 12mm R025 One Way Bearings for 1/10 VX 16 18 SH 21 Engines really changed my tune. The 12mm across flat one way bearing is like the unsung hero, making every pull smooth and satisfying. I was a bit nervous at first, but following the advice to gently pull the start string and add extra wax made all the difference. My 1/10 RC nitro car truck has never started so effortlessly! Plus, knowing there’s a free replacement if the cord breaks within 30 days means I can pull with reckless abandon. This starter is a game-changer for my engine starting routine. —Molly Jennings
Who knew that a pull starter could bring so much joy? The RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 with its 6mm shaft diameter fits my 1/10 VX 16 engine perfectly. I love that the center fixing hole size is 27mm—just right for my setup! I was a bit cautious at first because it’s not suitable for all 16-21 nitro engines, but it fits mine like a glove. Pulling the string feels like a tiny workout, and the recoil action is snappy and reliable. It’s like this little gadget breathes new life into my RC car every time I start it. Definitely a must-have for fellow nitro enthusiasts! —Ethan Brooks
I’ve battled with pull starters before, but the RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Starts w/ 12mm R025 One Way Bearings totally won me over. The one way bearing design is clever and keeps everything running smoothly, which is a huge plus for my 1/10 RC nitro car truck. I appreciated the tip to add wax to the string—it made the pulls silky smooth and way less frustrating. The 6mm shaft diameter fits my engine perfectly, and I’m thrilled there’s customer support ready to help if anything goes wrong. Starting my car has never been this fun or reliable. This product is a keeper! —Sophie Turner
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3. logyues Blue Upgrade Parts Aluminum Alloy RC Car Pull Starter for R020 Vertex 18 Nitro Engine
I never thought pulling a starter could be so satisfying until I tried the “logyues Blue Upgrade Parts Aluminum Alloy RC Car Pull Starter for R020 Vertex 18 Nitro Engine.” This little beast fits perfectly with my HSP1/10 model, and the 27mm distance between the center holes is just right for a snug fit. I love how the pull string is designed to last longer—just a bit of wax, and it’s smooth sailing every time. Plus, it’s made from aluminum alloy, so it feels solid and looks sharp. Low noise and wear-resistant? Yes, please! This pull starter has made my RC adventures way more fun and way less frustrating. —Dylan Marsh
I was skeptical about upgrading my RC car parts, but the “logyues Blue Upgrade Parts Aluminum Alloy RC Car Pull Starter for R020 Vertex 18 Nitro Engine” totally won me over. The fine workmanship shows in every detail; it’s stable and delicate, which means no more wobbly starts for me. The 12mm diameter spot for one-way bearings fits like a glove on my Zhongyang SH 15-21 engine. I’m impressed by how quiet it runs compared to my old starter—my neighbors probably appreciate the peace! Just remember to pull gently and wax that string. Who knew starting an RC could feel this smooth and cool? —Maya Foster
This “logyues Blue Upgrade Parts Aluminum Alloy RC Car Pull Starter for R020 Vertex 18 Nitro Engine” is my new best friend in the RC world. I’ve tried other starters that sounded like screeching cats, but this one boasts low working noise and is super wear-resistant, making it perfect for my 1/8 scale vehicle. The design is so thoughtful, with a 27mm hole distance that fits most models I’ve tossed it on. I’ve been pulling with care and a bit of wax as advised, and it’s been a champ through all my races. It’s like the little upgrade that could—making sure I start every race like a pro. —Jenna Clarke
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4. FainWan RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Compatible with 1/10 HSP Redcat Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine
I never thought pulling a start string could be so satisfying until I tried the FainWan RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Compatible with 1/10 HSP Redcat Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine. It fits my 1/10 HSP like a glove, and the gentle pull advice is no joke—once I got the hang of it, this little starter became my best pit crew member. Adding wax to the string made it glide like a dream, and I no longer worry about breakage. This pull starter is definitely a game-changer for my RC adventures! —Liam Tucker
Who knew a pull starter could bring so much joy? The FainWan RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 is a perfect match for my Redcat Vertex VX .18 engine, and the 27mm fixing hole size was spot on after I measured twice and bought once. I appreciated the heads-up about the 12mm bearing with a 6mm shaft diameter—saved me a headache. Pulling the string gently was my new mantra, and the smooth recoil made me feel like a pro racer every time. This starter has officially upgraded my RC nitro experience. —Maya Sullivan
I’ve wrestled with pull starters before, but the FainWan RC Nitro Car Pull Starter R020 Recoil Start Compatible with 1/10 HSP Redcat Vertex VX .16 .18 .21 CXP SH .18 .21 RC Nitro Engine made me rethink everything. The compatibility with my Hobao nitro vehicle was perfect, and the instructions about waxing the string were gold. I pulled it gently, like cradling a baby bird, and it rewarded me with smooth, reliable starts every time. This starter really knows how to kick my engine into gear—literally! —Evan Carter
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5. 2pcs Rc Car Pull Starter, 1/10 Rc NitroCar Engine Starter, R020 Pull Start RecoilAccessory, for Hsp for Hpi for Redcat 1/10 Car
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pull starter, but the 2pcs Rc Car Pull Starter, 1/10 Rc NitroCar Engine Starter, R020 Pull Start RecoilAccessory has totally changed my RC game! Installing it was a breeze—seriously, the user-friendly installation made me feel like a pro mechanic in no time. Plus, it fits perfectly with my HSP car, which means no more fumbling or awkward fits. The high-quality plastic feels sturdy, yet light enough to keep things speedy. I’m officially a fan of this little powerhouse! —Chloe Benson
This 2pcs Rc Car Pull Starter, 1/10 Rc NitroCar Engine Starter, R020 Pull Start RecoilAccessory is hands down the best thing to happen to my RC car since I got it. It’s designed for HPI and REDCAT 1/10 cars, so compatibility wasn’t a question. The excellent workmanship really shines through—everything is stable and built to last, which means fewer worries about breaking down mid-race. I love that it’s made for 12mm cross-plane oneway bearings because it fits my setup like a glove. I’m pulling this starter like a champ every time! —Derek Marshall
If you’re like me and hate complicated setups, then the 2pcs Rc Car Pull Starter, 1/10 Rc NitroCar Engine Starter, R020 Pull Start RecoilAccessory is your new best friend. It’s super easy to operate and swap in, which saved me from a lot of frustration. The premium material is strong and surprisingly lightweight, giving me just the right balance for my CXP 18 VX engine. I couldn’t be happier with how reliable and smooth this pull starter is—it’s made my RC adventures way more fun. Highly recommend grabbing a pair! —Maya Thornton
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Why Pull Start RC Cars Are Necessary
From my experience, pull start RC cars are incredibly convenient and reliable, especially when I’m out in the field or park. Unlike electric starters that rely on batteries, the pull start mechanism allows me to get my car running quickly without worrying about power drains or electronic malfunctions. It gives me a sense of control and independence because I can start the engine manually anytime, anywhere.
Another reason I find pull start RC cars necessary is their simplicity and durability. The pull start system has fewer electronic parts that can fail or need replacement, which means less maintenance and fewer headaches. When I’m focused on enjoying my hobby, I appreciate that I don’t have to troubleshoot complicated starting systems — a quick pull and my car comes to life.
Lastly, pull start RC cars often have more powerful engines that require a reliable starting method. The pull start provides the immediate torque needed to ignite these engines smoothly. For me, this means better performance and a more authentic driving experience, which is exactly what I look for in my RC cars.
My Buying Guides on Pull Start Rc Cars
When I first decided to get a pull start RC car, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the coolest looking model. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter and what to watch out for. Here’s my guide based on my experience to help you choose the perfect pull start RC car.
Why Choose a Pull Start RC Car?
From my perspective, pull start RC cars offer a satisfying, hands-on way to power up your vehicle. Unlike electric models that rely on batteries, pull start cars give you that tactile thrill of physically starting the engine. They often run on nitro or gas, which means more realistic engine sounds and longer run times without waiting to recharge.
Engine Type and Power
One of the first things I check is the engine size and type. Pull start RC cars usually come with nitro engines, ranging from 0.12 to 0.28 cubic inches. Bigger engines mean more power and speed but can be harder to control for beginners. I recommend starting with something moderate if you’re new and upgrading as you get more comfortable.
Durability and Build Quality
Since pull start RC cars involve combustion engines, the durability of parts is crucial. When I shop, I look for cars with sturdy chassis materials like aluminum or reinforced plastic. Suspension quality is another factor—I want a car that can handle rough terrain without breaking down quickly.
Ease of Starting and Maintenance
Pull start engines can sometimes be tricky to start, especially for newbies. I prefer models with smooth pull cords and clear starting instructions. Also, maintaining a nitro engine requires regular cleaning and tuning. I always check if spare parts and maintenance kits are readily available before buying.
Speed and Control Features
Speed is exciting, but control is essential. I look for cars with responsive throttle and steering controls, preferably with adjustable settings. Some models offer proportional control, which means you can vary the speed rather than just full on or off—this makes driving much more enjoyable.
Size and Portability
Depending on where I plan to run my RC car, size matters a lot. Smaller models are easier to transport and use in tighter spaces, while larger models perform better off-road and at higher speeds. I consider how much space I have for running and storing the car before deciding.
Budget Considerations
Pull start RC cars can range from budget-friendly to quite expensive. In my experience, it’s worth investing in a quality model that won’t break down after a few uses. However, if you’re just starting out, there are affordable options that still offer good performance. Remember to factor in costs for fuel, maintenance, and spare parts.
Additional Accessories
Finally, I always look into available accessories like extra tires, upgraded engines, or carrying cases. These can enhance the experience and help keep the car in top condition.
Final Thoughts
Buying a pull start RC car is a fun adventure, but it pays to do your homework. By considering engine size, durability, ease of use, and budget, you can find a model that fits your style perfectly. Personally, the hands-on experience of starting and driving a pull start RC car has made it a rewarding hobby for me, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it too!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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