Alternator Replacement Costs

The average cost for alternator replacement is $747 to $842. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much alternator repair costs in your local area.

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What You Should Know About Alternator Replacement Costs

Cost Factors
Signs of a Bad Alternator
Common Causes of Alternator Problems
Repair or Replace Alternator

The alternator is integral to your vehicle’s electrical system, providing power to the car’s battery and other systems. A malfunctioning alternator can cause various issues with your car, which can be dangerous and costly.

Have you experienced dimming headlights, a weak or dead battery, strange noises or smells, or difficulty starting your vehicle? In that case, these can all be signs that you may have an issue with your alternator.

Keep reading to discover what factors influence alternator replacements so you can know when it’s time to replace your alternator.

Factors Affecting Alternator Replacement Costs

Many factors affect alternator replacement cost, including the make and model of your vehicle and the type and quality of the parts used. The type of alternator can vary greatly, and so does the price.

The labor cost for replacing an alternator is also a factor. Labor costs vary from mechanic to mechanic and can be affected by job complexity. If the alternator is difficult to access or additional work is required, such as removing components or accessing other engine parts, this can increase labor costs.

Signs of a Bad Alternator

Some of the earliest signs of a failing alternator can include the following:

Dim headlights or dashboard lights
Battery warning light on the dashboard
Grinding or squealing noise from the engine compartment
Rough start or stalling
Malfunctioning accessories (such as power windows, radio, and air conditioning)
The smell of burning rubber or wiring

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to take your car to a trusted mechanic who can diagnose and repair it.

Common Causes of Alternator Failure

As frustrating as it may be to have an alternator malfunction, understanding why it occurred can help prevent the same issue from happening in the future. From a mechanical standpoint, alternators typically fail due to:

Long-term wear and tear
Leaking fluid
Worn-out bearings
A slipping belt
Incorrect use of jumper cables

Driving habits can play a role as well but to a lesser degree.

Should I Replace or Repair My Alternator?

Repair

Pros

Cheaper than replacing
Can extend the lifespan of the alternator
Quicker as it doesn’t involve fitting a new part into place

Cons

Not always possible depending on the severity of damage or the alternator’s age
Repair jobs may not last as long and can lead to future breakdown

Replace

Pros

It can be more reliable in the long run
A new part has a manufacturer’s warranty
New parts are built to last and perform better

Cons

It can be more expensive to replace than repair
More labor intensive

See Our Other Car Repair and Maintenance Costs

Content has been reviewed by Gary Hardesty, Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader in-house service and maintenance expert and an A.S.E. certified master technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is an Alternator, and What Does It Do?

An alternator is an electrical generator in your vehicle that supplies power to the car’s systems while running. It converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and charges the battery to maintain the charge needed for your vehicle’s electronic components.

Can You Drive with a Bad Alternator?

While driving very short distances with a failing alternator may be possible, it’s not recommended. Without sufficient power from the alternator, your battery drains quickly, and your car may shut off while you’re driving. You may not see your cluster gauge at night, and the headlights may be dim.

How Long Does It Take to Replace an Alternator?

The time to replace an alternator depends on whether you do the job yourself or take your vehicle to a mechanic. On average, if you’re replacing an alternator on your own, it can take you around 2-3 hours. If you take your car to a professional auto shop, expect the repair time to be 1-2 hours.

Can I Replace the Alternator Myself, or Do I Need a Mechanic?

Although it isn’t one of the most difficult jobs, replacing an alternator is still challenging and may require specialized tools. It’s best to consult a mechanic for advice if you aren’t familiar with the procedure.

How Can I Prevent Alternator Failure in the Future?

The best way to prevent alternator failure is to maintain your vehicle. Check and replace the car’s battery regularly, use jumper cables carefully, and don’t plug in any unregulated gadgets that could drain power from the vehicle. If you want peace of mind, take your vehicle to a trusted auto shop for a routine inspection.