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 just a battery?
The only way to know for sure is through proper testing of the charging and starting system. Some symptoms, such as dim lights or repeated jump-starts, can come from either a weak battery or a failing alternator. At Christian Brothers Automotive Plano, our ASE-certified technicians test the battery’s health, check alternator output, and look at how the system behaves under load. Once we see those readings, we can explain whether you simply need a battery or whether alternator installation is the right next step. We then review the results with you in clear language so you understand the reasons behind our recommendation.
Is it safe to drive if my battery light came on?
Driving with a battery or charging system light on can be risky, because it often means the alternator is not keeping the battery charged. In many cases, the vehicle will continue to run for a period of time, then eventually lose power and shut off once the battery is drained. How long that takes can depend on how much you are using electrical accessories and how strong the battery was to begin with. We generally suggest that you have the charging system checked as soon as you reasonably can, instead of waiting for a complete failure. Our team can inspect the system and let you know whether you should arrange for alternator replacement or if there is a different issue at work.
How long does starter or alternator replacement usually take?
The time needed for starter or alternator replacement can vary based on your vehicle’s design and how much access there is to the part. Many common models can be completed the same day once testing confirms the needed repair, while some vehicles with more complex layouts may take longer. When you bring your car in, we provide an estimate of both cost and timing before you approve any work. While your car is here, you are welcome to wait in our lobby or use our complimentary shuttle service to stay on schedule. Our goal is to finish the job carefully and efficiently, then confirm that starting and charging are operating correctly before you pick up your vehicle.
Will you explain the repair before you start and give me an estimate?
Yes, we always review our findings and estimates with you before starting a repair. After we complete testing of the battery, alternator, and starter, we sit down and explain what we found in straightforward terms. We outline the recommended repair, any alternatives that may apply, and the expected cost, then answer any questions you may have. Nothing moves forward until you approve the plan, so you remain in control of the decision. This approach reflects our focus on transparency and our desire to treat every guest like a neighbor, not just a transaction.
What kind of warranty do you offer on alternator and starter work?
Christian Brothers Automotive Plano offers an industry-leading warranty on the work we perform, including services such as alternator installation and starter replacement. Specific terms can depend on the parts used and the type of repair, and our team is always glad to walk through those details with you before you decide. The key point is that we want you to feel confident that your investment is protected after you leave our shop. If you have questions later, you can call us, and we will help you understand how your warranty applies. This commitment to standing behind our work is a central part of how we serve drivers in this community.
Can you help if my car will not start, and I cannot drive it in?
If your vehicle will not start at all, we can talk with you about what you are experiencing and help you consider next steps. Many guests choose to arrange for a tow to bring the vehicle to our shop, and we can let you know what to expect when it arrives. Once the car is here, we follow the same careful diagnostic process to determine whether you need starter replacement, alternator replacement, or another repair. We keep you updated by phone and review estimates before any work is done. Our goal is to support you through what can be a frustrating situation and help you get back on the road as smoothly as possible.
Why should I choose your shop for alternator or starter problems?
Choosing a shop for electrical issues is about more than just finding a place that can install parts. At Christian Brothers Automotive Plano, our ASE-certified technicians use manufacturer-quality equipment to diagnose and repair charging and starting systems accurately. We back our work with an industry-leading warranty, communicate clearly before and during repairs, and offer conveniences such as a comfortable lobby and complimentary shuttle service. Our owner/operators are often on-site, and our guiding principle of loving your neighbor shapes how we treat every guest. If you are comparing options for alternator installation in Plano or starter work, we work to provide a level of care and clarity that helps you feel confident in your choice.
Get Clear Answers About Your Alternator Or Starter Today
If you are dealing with a no-start condition, a battery light on the dash, or ongoing electrical issues, you do not have to guess what is wrong. Our team at Christian Brothers Automotive Plano can test your starting and charging system, explain the results, and outline a repair plan that fits your situation. Whether you need alternator replacement Plano service, a new starter, or a simpler fix, we work to provide honest guidance and dependable workmanship.
We understand that you rely on your vehicle every day, and we want to help you get back to safe, confident driving as soon as possible. From our welcoming environment to our complimentary shuttle and strong warranty, every part of the experience is designed with your peace of mind in mind. When you are ready to schedule service or ask a question, our team is here to help.
To talk with our team or schedule an appointment, call (972) 471-9642 or contact us online.
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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.