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 can you tell if it is my alternator or battery?
We use diagnostic equipment to test both the battery and the charging system. Our technicians measure battery health, alternator output, and how the system responds under load. Then we review the results with you so you can see which component is causing the problem before we recommend repairs.
How long does an alternator or starter work usually take?
Many alternator and starter repairs can be completed the same business day, although timing depends on your vehicle, parts availability, and the complexity of the work. We will let you know what to expect after diagnosis and keep you updated, and our shuttle service can help you manage your day.
What kind of warranty do you offer on these repairs?
Our alternator and starter repairs are covered by an industry-leading warranty on parts and labor. Specific terms can vary by part and vehicle, and our service staff will explain the details before you approve the work. This warranty is one way we stand behind the quality of our service.
Can I drive my car if the battery light is on?
It is usually safer to have your vehicle checked soon if the battery or charging light comes on. That light often means the alternator is not charging correctly. Continuing to drive could lead to a sudden loss of power. We suggest calling us so we can help you plan the next steps.
Do I need an appointment if my car will not start?
You do not always need a traditional appointment in a no-start situation, but calling ahead helps us prepare for your arrival. We can talk through your symptoms, discuss options for getting the vehicle to the shop, and let you know about timing and shuttle availability when you bring it in.
If you are dealing with a hard-starting vehicle, electrical issues, or need trusted alternator replacement in Stockbridge, our team is ready to help. We aim to make the process clear, honest, and convenient from the first call through final pickup.
To talk with our team or schedule service, reach out today.
Call (678) 929-1165 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.
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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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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.