Your alternator keeps your car’s battery charged, allowing you to start your vehicle and power your electronics. It uses your car’s drive belt to convert the mechanical energy from the crankshaft into electricity. If your alternator fails and stops charging the battery, you can struggle to keep your car moving. That’s why you should always book an alternator repair as soon as you notice a problem.
You should book an alternator repair near you if you notice any of the following warning signs:
Alternator Repairs cost between £100 and £700 in the UK. The average is between £150 to £300 and, while refurbished car alternators ar available, they don't offer that much of a saving.
Your alternator is a very durable component, but you can end up needing a replacement if either of the following happens:
Yes, you can fit a new alternator yourself. However, you should not attempt the process unless you are experienced and know what you are doing. Not only can you cause extra damage to your vehicle, but a live battery can also give you a nasty shock if you don’t disconnect it properly.
To fit a new alternator yourself, you must follow this process:
If an alternator replacement sounds like too much hard work, enter your reg and postcode to find a garage near you to complete the work instead. You can filter by reviews, labour rate, distance or availability - whatever matters to you the most. Once you’ve compared deals and picked the most suitable garage, you can select your preferred date and time to complete the booking.
You never pay a penny until after your chosen garage has completed your alternator repairs and there are no hidden extras either. When you compare garages in Bedford through BookMyGarage, you can save up to 70% vs booking an alternator replacement direct.
On average, an alternator replacement takes between 1-2 hours. However, this can vary depending on what make and model of vehicle you drive.
If you look after your alternator by driving sensibly, it can last 8-12 years without needing any repairs. Book a car service regularly to keep your car in good condition and avoid putting unnecessary stress on your alternator.
What do you need from your garage?
You may live within walking distance of a garage which offers most of the services you need. However, by sticking with the nearest garage in Bedford you could be missing out on a better deal. What if a garage with a collection / drop off service or courtesy car could do the same job at a good price, without the inconvenience of losing your car for the duration of the repair? BookMyGarage allows you to search for local garages which offer this facility, and compare their prices, all in one session.