How Much Does Alternator Replacement Cost in 2025?
The average alternator replacement cost in the UK ranges from £250 to £550 depending on the make and model of your car, with luxury or hybrid vehicles costing up to £700.
If your car suddenly won’t start or you’re seeing the battery warning light, you may have an alternator issue. Knowing the alternator replacement cost in the UK can help you plan for repairs and avoid roadside breakdowns. This guide explains average prices, service inclusions, cost-saving tips, and what symptoms to look for if your alternator is failing.
Average Alternator Replacement Cost in the UK
The cost to replace an alternator depends on several variables, such as the type of vehicle, accessibility of the part, the brand of alternator used, and regional labour rates. Typically, replacing an alternator in a standard vehicle is more straightforward than in modern hybrids or luxury models, where parts are harder to access.
Labour contributes a significant portion of the total expense. On average, mechanics charge between £50 and £120 per hour in the UK. Some garages offer fixed-rate services, but many charge hourly for diagnostics and fitting.
| Vehicle Type | Average Cost (Parts & Labour) | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Small Hatchback (e.g. Ford Fiesta) | £250 – £350 | 1.5 – 2.5 hours |
| Family Saloon (e.g. VW Passat) | £300 – £450 | 2 – 3 hours |
| SUV / 4×4 (e.g. Range Rover Evoque) | £400 – £550 | 2.5 – 4 hours |
| Hybrid Vehicles | £500 – £700 | 3 – 4.5 hours |
Real UK Garage Prices — Correct as of 9th July 2025
| Location / Source | Average Price | Garage / Source |
|---|---|---|
| National average (FixMyCar) | £525.92 (range £250–£800) | FixMyCar |
| National range (Bumper.co.uk) | £250–£750 (avg ~£525) | Bumper |
| ClickMechanic average | £250 (range £150–£400) | ClickMechanic |
| London (WhoCanFixMyCar) | £495.45 | WhoCanFixMyCar – London |
| Forum quote (Lexus LS400) | £733 (parts & labour) | Reddit r/CarTalkUK |
| Forum quote (Fiat example) | £200–£300 | Reddit r/CarTalkUK |
Alternator replacement prices vary depending on car make/model, part quality (OEM vs remanufactured), labour rates, and location. These figures offer a solid benchmark, but always check with local garages for precise quotes.
What’s Included in Alternator Replacement?
- Complete removal and disposal of the old alternator
- Fitting of a new OEM or equivalent quality alternator
- Drive belt inspection and tension adjustment
- Testing the alternator’s output with a voltmeter
- Battery health check and reset of diagnostic codes
- Labour, diagnostics, and any required bolts or connectors
How to Save Money on Alternator Replacement
- Compare local quotes: Use garage comparison websites to get multiple prices before booking.
- Refurbished units: Opting for a reconditioned alternator can save 30–40% while still offering a warranty.
- Independent mechanics: Non-franchise garages often offer significantly lower labour rates than dealerships.
- Diagnostic packages: Some garages bundle diagnostic fees with repair costs if you commit to service.
- Check extended warranties: If your car has an extended or dealer warranty, alternator repairs may be covered in full or partially.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Alternator
Recognising early symptoms of alternator trouble can help you avoid getting stranded. Here are the most common warning signs:
- Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
- Flickering or dim headlights
- Electrical accessories behaving erratically
- Whining or grinding noises from the engine area
- Dead battery or trouble starting the engine
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to have your car inspected immediately. Driving with a faulty alternator may result in complete power loss, especially at night or in bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my alternator is faulty?
Common signs include dimming headlights, electrical issues, battery warning light on the dashboard, or the engine failing to start. A mechanic can confirm with diagnostic tools.
Can I drive with a failing alternator?
It’s not advisable. A faulty alternator can stop charging the battery, leading to breakdowns. It may also cause erratic engine behaviour or power steering loss.
Is it cheaper to replace or repair an alternator?
Repairing might be cheaper in the short term but is less reliable. Most experts recommend replacement, as refurbished or new alternators come with a warranty.
Does the alternator replacement cost vary by region in the UK?
Yes. Labour costs tend to be higher in London and the South East. Northern cities like Manchester or Newcastle often have lower hourly rates.
Is alternator replacement covered by insurance?
Wear and tear items like alternators aren’t covered by standard car insurance. However, you might have coverage through mechanical breakdown insurance or an extended vehicle warranty.
How long does a new alternator last?
A good-quality alternator should last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles or around 5 to 8 years depending on usage, vehicle type, and maintenance habits.
Can I replace an alternator myself?
If you’re confident with car repairs and have the tools, DIY alternator replacement is possible. However, access can be difficult and it often requires removing other components. Incorrect fitting could damage the new part or void its warranty.
Want to DIY? Watch :
Other Relevant Articles
How much does car battery replacement cost in the UK?
If you’re dealing with dim lights, difficulty starting the engine, or electrical glitches, it could be your battery — but often, the real culprit is the alternator failing to keep it charged.
How much does spark plug replacement cost in the UK?
While alternators affect the power supply, poor ignition or engine misfires might also point to worn spark plugs, especially in older vehicles.