Alternator Repair

When should you change an Alternator?

Here are some of the most common signs that your alternator is on the blink:

• The alternator warning light will be on – in most cases this is shaped like a battery but some cars will show ‘ALT’ or ‘GEN’
• You may experience extremely bright or dimming headlights, or a speedometer that stops working
• Drivers sometimes complain of a growling or whining noise before the alternator gives out
• You may experience a smell of hot wires or burning rubber

The average alternator repair cost is between £250 and £300, depending on the car you drive, so it’s important you make sure you find the best deal. And that’s where we can help.

What does an Alternator do?

An alternator is a generator of electric power in your car and is a major component of your vehicle's charging system.

Whenever your engine is running, the alternator charges your battery and supplies additional electric power for the vehicle's electrical systems.

An alternator is attached to the engine and is driven by a drive belt (also known as a serpentine belt).

The alternator is a vital part of the electrical system as it delivers the power necessary to keeping energy running through the system.

If your alternator has failed, your car battery will soon lose power.

Alternator problems can be a major problem because a car cannot actually start without power in the battery. This is because the starter motor requires electricity to get the engine going.

Starter motor repair can be included in an alternator repair though it may have to be replaced if there has been a serious electrical problem caused from a broken alternator.

On average, an alternator can last for 8-12 years without any repairs. If an alternator fails, the car may still run on battery power alone for a short time, but will die as soon as the battery charge is depleted.

Replacing an alternator with a new unit is quite expensive, though alternator prices will change depending on the vehicle.

Alternator price is shown at the top of this page when it comes to the average cost, however, the only way to get accurate know how much is an alternator repair, is by entering your details in the box above.

Reconditioned Alternators

A reconditioned alternator is a part which has been repaired by a parts repair specialist and it can be fitted in place of a brand new alternator if yours need to be replaced.

There are a number of parts which can be reconditioned and fitted into a car at a lower cost than a new part and some garages may offer you the option of having a reconditioned alternator fitted as opposed to a new alternator.

Where can I get an Alternator repaired?

• Simply enter your car registration number
• Give us some details about your vehicle and the the symptoms you're experiencing
• We’ll send you a great selection of quotes from mechanics in your area

We use our network of over 11,939 mechanics and garages across the UK to find you the best deal. You can then compare the quotes, read reviews from previous customers and book your alternator repair online.

Enter your registration to compare alternator repair prices, read reviews and book your car in online.