Alternator Repair Service: Keeping Your Vehicle Powered and Road-Ready
At Alterstart UK, we know how crucial it is to keep your vehicle’s electrical system in top condition, and the alternator plays a vital role in that. It’s responsible for generating power to run your vehicle’s systems and keep the battery charged. When it starts to fail, your vehicle can experience a range of problems, which, if left unchecked, can lead to costly breakdowns. Our expert alternator repair service can fully refurbish your existing alternator, saving you potentially hundreds of pounds on a replacement. But if a new alternator is the better choice, we can supply and fit that too.
How to Tell if Your Alternator Needs Servicing
Knowing the early signs of a failing alternator can prevent a complete breakdown and save you from inconvenient and costly repairs. Here are some key indicators that your alternator may need servicing:
1. Dimming or Flickering Lights
- One of the first signs of a problem is dimming or flickering headlights. This can also affect interior lights and dashboard indicators. If you notice inconsistent lighting, it could mean the alternator isn’t supplying enough power.
2. Battery Warning Light on the Dashboard
- Many vehicles have a battery warning light on the dashboard that will illuminate if there’s an issue with the charging system. While this light can indicate other battery-related issues, it’s often a sign that the alternator is not charging as it should.
3. Frequent Battery Issues
- If your vehicle’s battery is constantly running down despite regular use, the alternator may not be able to recharge it properly. This can cause the battery to drain faster, especially during short trips where the alternator doesn’t get time to recharge it fully.
4. Electrical Malfunctions
- As the alternator starts to fail, you may experience electrical malfunctions, such as difficulty operating power windows, failing radio, or malfunctioning gauges. This occurs because the alternator isn’t supplying enough power to all systems.
5. Grinding or Whining Noises
- Unusual sounds, like grinding or whining, coming from under the hood can sometimes indicate an issue with the alternator’s internal components, such as worn bearings. If you hear any of these sounds, it’s best to have the alternator checked immediately.
6. A Burning Smell
- If you notice a burning smell, it could be due to a failing alternator generating excess heat. This can result from issues like an overworked alternator or faulty wiring.
Our Alternator Refurbishment Service
When you bring your vehicle to Alterstart UK, our experienced technicians will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the exact problem with your alternator. If repair is possible, we can fully refurbish your alternator, replacing worn parts to restore it to optimal working condition. This is often a more cost-effective solution compared to buying a new one, saving you hundreds of pounds while ensuring your vehicle remains reliable.
Cost of Alternator Repair vs Replacement
Alternator Repair Cost
- Average repair cost: £80-£120
- Repairs often save hundreds of pounds, making it an economical choice compared to a full replacement.
Alternator Replacement Cost
- Replacement cost: £250-£800 (with RAC reporting the average replacement cost at £525, according to RAC).
Note: Some alternator repairs may exceed the average cost if specialised or high-cost parts are needed. We always provide a detailed estimate upfront to keep you informed.
When an Alternator Repair Service isn’t the best Option
In some cases, a replacement may be the better long-term solution. If the alternator is too worn or damaged to be effectively repaired, we can supply a brand-new alternator, ensuring you receive a high-quality component suited to your vehicle’s needs.
Why Choose Alterstart UK?
- Cost Savings – Refurbishment can save you significantly compared to the cost of a brand-new alternator.
- Expertise – With years of experience in alternator repair and refurbishment, we can provide a solution tailored to your vehicle’s requirements.
- Customer-Centric – We put your needs first, offering honest advice on whether refurbishment or replacement is the best route.
Contact Us Today
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, don’t wait until it leads to bigger problems. Contact Alterstart UK today to book an inspection, and let our team keep you on the road with a fully functioning alternator. Whether it’s a repair, refurbishment, or replacement, we’ve got you covered.