A Straightforward Three-Step Service Process
We keep starter repair and alternator replacement straightforward from the initial inspection through the completed work.
- Inspect: We evaluate the symptoms and test the relevant charging and starting system components.
- Explain: We review our findings in clear language and provide an estimate before work begins.
- Update: We keep you informed throughout the repair so you know what’s happening with your vehicle.
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.
Convenient, Accountable Auto Service in Winston-Salem
Our owner-operators are on-site, bringing personal accountability to every service visit. While we inspect your vehicle, you can relax in our comfortable customer area or ask about complimentary shuttle service to keep your day moving.
Our industry-leading warranty reflects our confidence in our workmanship. When we review the recommended repair, we can also explain the applicable coverage so you know what to expect.
How We Pinpoint Charging & Starting System Problems
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring, belt, and connection problems can cause overlapping symptoms. Replacing a component based on one symptom alone can leave the real fault unresolved, so we test the connected systems before recommending a new part.
Our technicians begin with a thorough inspection and electrical system diagnostics. Testing may include a battery voltage test with the engine off and running. Because running voltage is generally higher when the alternator is charging properly, these measurements can reveal whether the charging system is producing sufficient power. If the vehicle clicks, cranks slowly, or has a no-crank condition, we also assess the starter circuit.
After testing, we explain the results and provide a clear estimate. If alternator replacement in Winston-Salem is the appropriate repair, we show you the measurements and observations behind that recommendation before work begins.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Charging System Problems
A weakening alternator can leave your vehicle running only on the battery’s remaining charge. Once that power is depleted, the engine can stall and may not restart. Replacing drained batteries without diagnosing the charging system can lead to repeated breakdowns while leaving the underlying fault unresolved.
Starter trouble can progress from occasional clicking or slow cranking to a vehicle that won’t start at all. Scheduling service when warning signs first appear gives us a chance to test the system before you’re stranded and the problem becomes more disruptive.
Schedule Alternator or Starter Service in Winston-Salem
We provide careful testing, clear explanations, and an estimate before proceeding with alternator replacement or starter repair. To use our online scheduling option, select Request an appointment.
Call (336) 518-5897 to schedule alternator or starter service with Christian Brothers Automotive Robinhood.
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.