If your engine is not starting or you have a dead battery, your alternator might need replacing. Replacing an alternator can be expensive but is necessary to keep your car running safely and efficiently. So, don’t put your alternator replacement off.  

However, before you settle on a garage and price, compare the typical UK alternator replacement costs to ensure you know the going rate.  

This handy guide explains the average cost of labour and parts to replace an alternator in the UK. We’ve also included some frequently asked questions to ensure you have the full picture. Scroll down to learn more now. 

How much does an alternator cost? Complete alternator replacement cost guide 

The average cost of a new alternator is between £50 and £200. 

The cost to replace an alternator depends on the car model and make, then the labour cost to replace the alternator. It works out at, on average, £150 to £250 pounds for the mechanic's time. 

Average alternator costs by car 

To help give you an idea of average costs in the UK for alternators, we've rounded up different cost estimates for both economical and luxury vehicles.  

See the table below for approximate alternator prices: 

If you're worried about an expensive car repair bill, then Bumper can help. Split the cost with 0% interest monthly repayments. 

Is an alternator expensive? 

Alternators are one of the more expensive car parts to repair or replace. The average cost sits around £400 to £500, and it can go up depending on your car’s age, needs, make, and local garage prices. 

How long does it take to replace an alternator? 

Alternator replacement times in a reputable garage should take between 1 hour to 2.5 hours, with an average of just over one hour.  

This average depends on the car, and other factors may cause the repair to be delayed. For example, other repairs may be needed, or the team might need to order specific parts. 

What does an alternator do in a car? 

An alternator is an electrical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in an internal combustion engine. It is typically found in cars, trucks, and other vehicles.  

Don't worry if you're not 100% sure what an alternator does. Many only discover this part when it needs repairing.  

The alternator is powered by a belt connected to the car engine, creating an alternating current of electricity when it spins. The electricity from the alternating current is then used to charge the car's battery and power the car's electrical system. 

Can I carry out the alternator replacement myself? 

It's best to leave this task to a qualified mechanic. While replacing an alternator yourself is possible, it is a complicated job requiring specialist tools. 

You might save money on labour costs, but the risks don't outweigh the benefits. You need special tools for a start, and then, on top of all the expert mechanical knowledge needed, you might damage other components, making it more expensive in the long run! 

What are the symptoms of a failing alternator? 

Are you unsure if your alternator is failing? We’ve gathered the top signs that you need a repair to help you determine what’s going on with your vehicle. 

Symptoms of a failing alternator include: 

• Dim or flickering lights 
• Engine not starting or stalling regularly 
• Dead Battery 
• The smell of burning rubber or wires 
• Strange growling noises from the alternator 
• Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard 
• Slow cranking when starting the car 

If your car is experiencing any of the symptoms of a failing alternator, it is recommended to have your alternator checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 

Is it worth fixing the alternator? 

The decision to repair or replace your alternator requires careful consideration. Replacing an alternator can be expensive, and many drivers, understandably, want to save money where possible. 

However, if you are mechanically inclined and have the right tools, you may be able to save some money by replacing the alternator yourself. Please only attempt this if you are very experienced with cars. 

On the other hand, if it’s a relatively new car with a complex electrical system, it may be better to leave it to professionals.  

Ultimately, whether it is worth fixing your alternator really depends on how much money you have available and how comfortable you are tackling such a job yourself. 

Can you drive with a faulty alternator? 

We don't recommend driving a car with a faulty alternator, as it can damage other components and even lead to further damage to the engine due to a lack of power. This will leave you with higher repair costs and an unsafe vehicle.  

A faulty alternator can cause various electrical issues within the car, which might not have caused such a problem thirty years ago. Still, most cars rely on electricity and computer components to run smoothly.  

What’s more, a faulty alternator won’t be able to keep your car’s battery charged sufficiently, which can cause your fuel injectors to fail and your engine to stall. 

How to find alternator repair near me 

A quick Google search can help you find a reputable garage for alternator repairs. However, always look at genuine customer reviews and shop around for different prices before deciding on one garage. 

You can also ask friends and family for word-of-mouth recommendations. This can help you find garages that provide good experiences without wading through pages of internet marketing. 

Bumper also has a handy search tool that connects you with verified local garages. To get started, enter your vehicle registration on our homepage. 

Alternator repair costs - Final thoughts 

Hopefully, this blog has helped you estimate your alternator repair costs and provided some useful information about the service. Save this page so you can revisit the FAQs and approximate costs before you book your service. 

Split the cost with Bumper 

Here at Bumper, we know a hefty car repair bill for an alternator is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts are crucial for you and your family’s safety.  

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost of repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free.  

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and split your repair bill into monthly chunks.  

Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.