Compare Hyundai I20 alternator repair quotes from specialist garages

The i20 is a practical, efficient and stylish small car, making it a popular choice for urban commuters. There is a more exciting side to this model, too, because it is used as the basis for Hyundai's rally car, competing in the World Rally Championships (WRC).

At the 2023 WhatCar? Awards, the Hyundai i20 N was crowned 'Hot Hatch of the Year' - a highly sought-after title - earning praise for its "brilliant body control and grip". Two years before, it was also named 'Car of the Year' at Top Gear's annual awards. The most recent generation of the i20 is exceptionally reliable; in earlier models from 2009-15, watch for signs of clutch wear and blocked DPFs in diesel engines.

The alternator plays a simple but crucial role in keeping your car's battery charged, which means it is also indirectly responsible for starting the vehicle and keeping various components running. It is like a small generator; the engine spins, and the alternator turns this movement into electricity.

Here are five signs your alternator is faulty.

Common reasons for car alternator repair include a failing voltage regulator (which ensures the battery receives the charge at the correct voltage) and worn brushes (which maintain electrical contact with the alternator). An alternator specialist can advise you on the cause of the problem and how best to fix it.

Rather than repairing the component, a total car alternator replacement may be required, which is a straightforward job that most mechanics can do. However, when considering an alternator repair vs replacement, the latter only occurs when multiple parts fail, and the repair cost would be close to that of fitting a new component.

Find out how much it costs to replace an alternator in this guide.