What to Expect With a Alternator and Starter Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need an alternator or a battery?
The best way to know is through testing. Our technicians check battery health and alternator output, then explain the results in clear terms. Similar symptoms can come from either part, so we avoid guessing and recommend only the component that truly needs to be replaced.
How long does an alternator or starter replacement take?
Many alternator or starter repairs can be completed the same day, although timing depends on your vehicle, parts availability, and what our diagnostics reveal. We will give you a realistic timeframe before work begins and keep you updated if anything changes while your vehicle is with us.
Will you explain the costs before starting any repair?
Yes, we always review a written estimate with you before any repair work starts. Our team explains what we found, which parts are needed, and how labor is calculated. You have the chance to ask questions, consider your options, and approve the work you feel comfortable with.
What kind of warranty do you offer on this work?
We offer an industry-leading warranty on our repairs, including alternator and starter work. The specific terms can vary, so our team will outline what your warranty covers and how long it lasts. This protection is one reason many drivers choose us for major electrical repairs.
Can your team help if my car will not start at all?
If your car will not start at all, you can contact us, and we will help you plan the next steps. We can discuss safe towing options and what to expect once your vehicle arrives. From there, our technicians will diagnose the issue and explain any needed repairs.
Schedule Your Reliable Alternator Replacement Today
If you are dealing with a vehicle that will not start, dimming lights, or a charging warning light, you do not have to sort it out alone. Our team at Christian Brothers Automotive Aurora is ready to test your system, explain what we find, and provide the right repair for your situation here in Aurora, IL.
We strive to combine careful diagnostics, quality parts, and a strong warranty with a friendly, neighborly experience. Whether you suspect you need alternator installation or another type of electrical service, we are here to help you make an informed decision and get back to your life with confidence.
To schedule service or ask a question about your starting or charging problem, contact us online or call (331) 343-5161.
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FAQs
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Q. "Why is the alternator important?"The alternator helps the battery maintain power. As the car is driving, it’s gaining power from the engine. During this time, the alternator is charging the battery. When the car stops running, the charge from the alternator allows the battery to continue providing power to the car.
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Q. "What does the alternator do?"As an alternate source of power, the alternator helps many features in the car run. It helps your air conditioning maintain proper airflow, powers the radio, and turns on the headlights, among other things. It can also add power to the engine.
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Q. "Where is the alternator located?"You’ll typically find the alternator near the front of the engine, bolted in with two brackets. One is adjustable (to allow for drive belt-tightening) while the other is fixed.
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Q. "What are some signs that my starter is going bad?"Some common symptoms that your starter is going bad or is dead include: clicking or other odd noises, lights working in your car but the engine won't turn, taking more than one attempt to start, or smoke coming from the hood.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"As always perfect customer service and a job. Well done in a timely manner. Thank you so much to the team."
- Ingrid