Alternator Repairs Centres

What is a car alternator?

A car alternator keeps your car's battery charged, which is obviously important because a charged battery starts your car and powers everything electrical within it. It does so using a drive belt (sometimes referred to as a serpentine belt) to convert the mechanical energy of the car's rotating crankshaft into electricity through a process of induction.

What are the possible signs of a faulty alternator?

• Your car is difficult or slow to start.
• Growling, whirring, whining or squealing noises are emanating from your car's engine.
• Your car’s interior and exterior lights seem too dim, blink erratically, gradually fade, suddenly get brighter or don’t come on at all.
• The red light on your car’s dash with the image of a battery (or the words ALT or GEN) becomes illuminated.
• Your speedometer has stopped working.
• You can smell rubber burning.
• Your car fails a multimeter test at a garage.

What is the cause of a faulty car alternator?

• The component, a brush, which maintains constant electrical contact with the spinning alternator, becomes worn.
• The voltage regulator, which makes sure that the electrical charge is passed to the battery at the correct voltage, fails.

How long does a car alternator last?

• On average, a car alternator can last for 8-12 years without needing for any repairs.

How much does it cost to repair a faulty alternator?

• On average, it costs between £150-£300 to repair or replace a broken car alternator depending on the vehicle.
• Refurbished car alternators are available but do not offer that much of a cost saving.

How and where can I get a car alternator repaired?

• BookMyGarage is partners with over 9,000 garages in the UK so we can almost certainly find one to repair or replace your car.
• Go to bookmygarage.com, enter your car registration and postcode, and then press the search button.
• Sort the results by etc.
• Call one of our expert mechanics on 03304 004439 for help and advice if needed.