Is it Expensive to Fix an Alternator?
If you’ve ever turned the key to start your car and waited for it to turn over only to hear strange sounds that won’t go away, it might be time to have an alternator tested. Now, this could mean that you need a new battery or something else completely but it might also mean you have an alternator problem.
The alternator is a complex piece of machinery that produces the electrical current that your car needs to run. It also houses a voltage regulator that regulates the amount of electricity it sends to your battery. This is important because it helps to prevent overcharging of your battery, which can cause major damage to the parts that rely on the electrical current.
It is not uncommon for the alternator to get damaged over time due to its constant use and abuse. This can be due to things like a fuse that gets blown, or the rotating plates within the alternator getting worn out and needing replacement. The rotor’s ball bearings can also wear out and grind up, preventing it from spinning smoothly and creating the electrical output your car needs to start.
There are several different factors that influence how much a new alternator costs, including your year, make, and model of car. Typically, a larger alternator that is intended for a bigger car will cost more than one meant for a smaller vehicle.
You can save some money on your repair by purchasing an alternator that is remanufactured instead of brand new. These parts are often made from recycled or salvaged components, and can save you $100-$200 compared to an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part.
The cost to fix an alternator can vary greatly depending on the shop you take it to and what kind of alternator they have in stock. The alternator itself is the main component of the cost, but you’ll need to consider labor as well. This can be anywhere from $125-$200 an hour depending on the shop you choose and the labor rate they charge per hour.
Your car’s wiring can also be a big factor in how much the alternator will cost to replace. This is because the alternator is often built into a complex system that is connected to a number of wires, including your negative ground wire, which is located within the engine compartment.
Some of these wires can be twisted and bent, causing problems. It can also be the case that the wires become loose or shorted out, preventing them from working correctly.
You might also notice that your car is having issues starting, or it may seem to be running slow. The alternator is responsible for keeping your battery charged and making sure that your vehicle’s electrical systems can operate properly, and if it goes bad, those functions will not work.
The alternator is a complicated machine that powers many different parts of your vehicle, so it’s best to resolve it as early as possible when you notice the first signs that your alternator is failing. The problem will get worse if you wait too long, and the result might be a faulty battery or your vehicle will stop running entirely.
