I've known I've had an oil leak in my car but could not locate it. Recently my car would not start, and I found out it was because the starter was soaked in oil. I'm wondering if it's too late to save the starter (I tapped it and now it runs) and where this leak could be coming from (most likely transmission, but could be coolant)

 

It's not likely to do any long-term damage.

 

So if I take out the starter, clean up the connectors and stop the leak it should be fine? or should I prepare to buy a new starter?

 

You'll probably be fine.