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 starter replacement?
The most reliable way to know is with a professional diagnosis. While symptoms like repeated no-start events, grinding sounds, or dashboard warnings can suggest a problem, these signs can overlap with other issues. Our technicians use diagnostic equipment to find the exact cause, and we explain our recommendations clearly so you understand your choices.
Will I get a written estimate before the work starts?
Yes, every customer receives a full written estimate before repair or installation. We go over the details in person, answer questions, and ensure you approve the repair plan before we start. Upfront estimates are part of our commitment to honest, transparent service.
What kind of warranty do you offer on repairs?
Our industry-leading warranty covers both parts and labor for alternator replacement in Melbourne and related services. Coverage varies based on the part and vehicle, and we always disclose exact terms before work begins. This provides you with confidence and protects your repair investment after leaving our shop.
Can you help if I need a ride while my car is in the shop?
Yes, we offer a complimentary shuttle service for customers throughout Melbourne. Whether you need transportation to work, home, or somewhere else nearby, just let our team know. Our shuttle makes it easier for you to carry on with your day during your appointment.
Are your technicians certified?
Yes, our entire staff of technicians holds ASE certification. This ensures you receive service from professionals who meet the strictest industry standards and keep up with continuing education. You can trust that your alternator installation or car starter replacement will be handled by experienced hands.
How quickly can I get back on the road?
Most alternator and starter replacements are completed the same day, depending on part availability and the specifics of your vehicle. We always communicate expected timing before we begin, and we keep you updated throughout. Our mission is to get you safely back on the road as quickly as possible.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
"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.