Alternator
Mobile Alternator Replacement in Utah
The alternator charges the battery and powers the electrical system while the engine runs. A failing one shows up as a battery light, dimming headlights, or a car that dies while you drive. Alternator replacement is done at your home or workplace, on all makes and models.
- All makes and models
- $125 diagnostic, credited if you go ahead with the repair
- Nephi to Ogden, including Eagle Mountain and Heber
What alternator replacement involves
Replacing an alternator means disconnecting the battery, loosening the drive belt, unbolting the old alternator and installing a new one, then putting the belt back on. The belt is worth a look at the same time, since a worn belt can stop an alternator from charging.
Signs of a failing alternator
- A battery warning light while driving. Many cars show it for a charging problem.
- Dim or flickering headlights. Especially at idle, brightening when you rev the engine.
- The car dies while driving, or will not restart after a jump. The battery is running down because nothing is charging it.
- A whine or grinding from the front of the engine. The alternator bearings can wear out.
- A smell of hot wiring or burning rubber. An overworked alternator or a slipping belt.
Why replacing only the battery can fail
A weak alternator runs down any battery. A new battery that dies again within days often means the charging system is the problem, not the battery.
What it costs
What an alternator replacement costs depends on the vehicle and the part, so no single price is listed.
- Diagnostic
- $125On every job. Credited if you go ahead with the repair. Kept if you decline it.
- Travel
- $75 to $100Depends on distance and fuel. Charged in addition to the diagnostic.
- Repair
- By vehicle and laborThe price depends on your vehicle, the parts and the labor it needs.
Questions
Questions about alternator replacement
Can a mobile mechanic replace an alternator at my house?
Yes. An alternator replacement can be done at your home or workplace. How hard it is to reach varies by vehicle, so give the year, make and model and what the car is doing when you call or text.
How do I know if it is the alternator or the battery?
A car that will not start with dim lights points to the battery. A car that starts with a jump and then dies, or shows a battery light while driving, points to the alternator. A loose cable can look like either.
Can I drive with the battery light on?
Not far. The car is running on battery power alone and will stall when it runs out. Turn off anything you do not need, get to a safe place, and do not turn the engine off until you are there.
Can a bad alternator ruin a new battery?
Yes. If the alternator is not charging, a battery runs down and can be damaged by repeated deep discharges. A new battery that dies again soon is a reason to have the charging system looked at.
Battery light or dying car? Call or text.
Give the year, make and model and what the car did.