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 you know if it is my alternator or starter?
We test your entire starting and charging system rather than guessing. Our technicians check the battery, measure alternator output, and evaluate starter performance with professional equipment. Once we have results, we explain whether the issue is the alternator, starter, battery, or something else before recommending repairs.
How long will alternator or starter replacement take?
Most alternator or starter replacements are completed the same day once your vehicle is in the shop, although timing can vary by model and parts availability. We let you know what to expect up front and keep you updated, so you can plan around work and family commitments.
What should I do if my car will not start at home?
If your car will not start, avoid repeated cranking that could strain the battery further. Arrange for the vehicle to be brought to us safely, then call to let us know it is coming. Once it arrives, we can test the system, explain what we find, and discuss repair options with you.
Do you offer a warranty for the alternator and starter work?
Yes, our alternator and starter repairs are backed by an industry-leading warranty on parts and labor. We review your specific coverage when you pick up your vehicle. This warranty reflects our confidence in the quality of our workmanship and the components we install.
Will you explain my options before doing any repairs?
We always explain your options before beginning repairs. After testing, we review what we found, outline recommended work, and provide a clear estimate. You can ask questions and decide how to proceed, and we only move forward with the services that you approve.
Schedule Your Electrical Repair Today
If your vehicle is hard to start, the battery light is on, or you are worried about your charging system, our team is ready to help. We work to provide accurate diagnosis, clear communication, and repairs you can feel good about, from alternator issues to car starter replacement.
You do not have to navigate these problems alone or guess which part has failed. At Christian Brothers Automotive Lockport, we combine ASE-certified technicians, manufacturer-quality equipment, and a neighbor-focused approach to service. Our warranty-backed work and convenient shuttle support make it easier to get back to your routine with confidence.
To schedule an appointment or speak with our team, contact us online or call (815) 426-9532.
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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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"Thank You for your honesty! I took my vehicle in With a screw On A tire thinking it was a flat but NiCo told me there WASN'T any damage Done and Therefore Won’t be a charge for they’re service. Honesty means a lot to me. I Highly recommend Chri"
- S.M