An overload-protection and damper device for a vehicle starter is disclosed, the starter comprising an electric motor and a planetary-gear type speed reducing mechanism coupled with an output shaft of the electric motor. The overload-protection and damper device comprises a ring gear of the speed reducing mechanism, the ring gear having an outer circumference of a frusto-conical shape and defining an axial direction, a holder ring for receiving the ring gear therein, the holder ring having an inner circumference of a frusta-conical shape, with the outer circumference having a cone angle which is substantially equal to that of the inner circumference, and an elastic element applying an axial pushing force to the ring gear towards the holder ring so that the outer circumference biases against the inner circumference, forming a frictional fit therebetween. An increased maximum output torque can be provided by a simple structure.