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 I tell the difference between a bad battery, alternator, or starter?
While symptoms can overlap, a bad starter often results in a clicking sound or no sound at all when you turn the key. A bad alternator typically causes the car to start but then die, or for electronics to fail while driving. A bad battery can cause a slow engine crank. The only way to know for sure is with our professional diagnostic test of the entire system.
How long does an alternator or starter replacement typically take?
Most alternator & starter replacements can be completed in just a few hours. The exact time depends on your vehicle's make and model, as some components are harder to access. We will always provide you with a clear time estimate after our initial diagnosis.
How long does an alternator replacement service take?
A standard alternator replacement or starter swap typically takes between two and four hours, depending on your vehicle's design. Some modern engines require the removal of other components to access the charging system, which can extend the time. We always provide a clear time estimate after our initial diagnostic so you can plan your day accordingly.
Does a jump-start always mean I just need a new battery?
Not necessarily. A jump-start proves the battery was too low to crank the engine, but it doesn't tell us why. A failing alternator may have stopped recharging the battery, or a parasitic draw in the electrical system could be draining it. Our comprehensive alternator & starter services identify the root cause so you don't waste money on a battery you don't need.
What is the benefit of your industry-leading warranty?
Our industry-leading warranty reflects our confidence in our ASE-certified technicians and the high-quality parts we use. It provides peace of mind that if your alternator installation or starter fails prematurely, the repair is covered at no additional cost to you. This protection is valid at locations across the country, ensuring you're covered wherever you travel.
Why is my car making a clicking sound but not starting?
A rapid clicking sound usually indicates that the starter replacements are receiving some power, but not enough to engage the engine. This is often caused by a discharged battery or corroded terminals. A single loud click often points to a failed starter solenoid. We recommend a full diagnostic to confirm if you need a car starter replacement Holland service.
Can cold winters damage my alternator?
Cold weather doesn't damage the alternator directly, but it increases the electrical load significantly. Using the defroster, high-speed wipers, and seat heaters simultaneously forces the alternator to work harder. In West Michigan, this heavy demand can lead to heat buildup within the alternator's diodes, eventually requiring an alternator replacement to restore the vehicle's charging capacity.
Schedule your electrical system diagnostic online or call (616) 504-6799 today!
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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.