An RAC Mobile Mechanic using a diagnostic machine inspecting a car for an alternator repair.A mechanic using a diagnostic machine to inspect a car vehicle engine
Service, Repairs & MOT

Alternator repair in Reading

Book an RAC Mobile Mechanic and we’ll come to you at home or work.

  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

£420.42

Average price for this repair in Reading in the last 30 days^

Trustpilot rating for all RAC Mobile Mechanics.

Why choose the RAC for an alternator repair?

With RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage. They can do an alternator repair on your driveway, so you don't even need to leave the house.

All our alternators are OEM standards, that means we only use parts that meet your vehicle manufacturer’s strict quality criteria, ensuring top quality and reliability. With a 12-month guarantee, you can trust our replacement alternators to last. The price includes fitting – no hidden costs. Just friendly, honest experts.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick in Reading

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Reading

At the RAC, we’ve got over 125 years’ experience in offering complete peace of mind to our members. We’re best known for our breakdown service. And now – our new RAC Mobile Mechanics are here to help make every day motoring easier. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

An RAC Mobile Mechanic using a diagnostic machine inspecting a car for an alternator repair.

Book an alternator repair

If your car’s battery keeps dying or electrical systems are acting up, it could be a faulty alternator. Your alternator should charge the battery properly, and if it doesn’t, you could need an alternator repair.

We use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standard parts, which means every new part will be the same standard and same quality as the original part it replaced.
Our mobile mechanics are friendly, honest, and backed by the RAC.
Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic running a vehicle diagnostic check

Vehicle diagnostic check

£99

We’ll spend up to 30 mins checking our car’s onboard management system for faults. We’ll talk you through repairs needed and provide a full report. If any further work is needed, we’ll agree this with you before we start. Any additional work after the first 30 minutes will be priced at £20 per 15 minutes. We’ll agree this with you before proceeding.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors
If we detect any issues, we'll talk through what needs to be repaired. We’ll give you a no-obligation quote to fix it on the spot, if we can. Or we’ll recommend a local RAC Approved Garage, and give you a full error report to take there.

Average cost of an alternator repair by car make^

The cost to repair your car alternator will depend on the car you drive. According to RAC data, the average cost to repair a car alternator is £458. But you can check out the average price of an alternator repair for your specific car make here.

Make

Average Price

Ford

£435

Volkswagen

£466

Vauxhall

£436

Nissan

£478

Toyota

£417

BMW

£495

Peugeot

£469

Renault

£477

Mercedes-Benz

£525

Citroen

£445

^Average price quoted for RAC Mobile Mechanics from 01/01/25 to 31/03/25.


And it’s not just alternator repairs that we do in Reading

Mobile mechanics bring the garage to you, saving you the hassle of getting your car to a garage. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

VAG Techniks

5.0/5

At VAG Techniks you can rest assured knowing that your Audi, SEAT, Skoda or VW vehicle will be serviced and repaired to manufacturer's specification without the main dealer prices. We take pride in offering the highest standard of workmanship possible to each and every one of our customers. Our aim is to achieve complete customer satisfaction and we are confident you will be impressed with our customer service and professional approach to work. Located in Peppard Common our garage services are available to customers throughout Oxfordshire and Berkshire, in areas including Henley-on-Thames, Reading and Wallingford. With many years' experience, VAG Techniks are a family run business that specialises in MOT testing, servicing and repairs, and performance optimisation for VAG vehicles including Audi, SEAT, Skoda and Volkswagen.
Unit 22 Manor Farm, Peppard Common, Henley-On-Thames, RG9 5LA

Eco-Test MOT Service and Repair Centre

5.0/5

If your car needs an MOT in Bracknell or Ascot area our car garage can help. Our car garage and repair centre is located between Bracknell and Ascot on the London Road, new forest roudabout opposite the Mercedes Ascot garage. Ecotest Mot Mot and Serving Centre offer many service options from oil change service, interim service, full service to special servicing options including cambelts. Ecotest Mot and Service centre in Bracknell and Ascot give a Free car wash for every full or major service and a free car valet inside and out with every full or major service and Mot when booked together. At Eco-Test we operate on 100% renewable electricity. We also operate a recycling scheme for all our waste oil, oil filters, tyres, exhausts, batteries, paper and cardboard. Helping you, your car and the environment to be as eco friendly and safe as possible. Cars for servicing, Mot or cars for repairs can be collected from your home or work place if you need it. This service needs to be arranged beforehand when booking your MOT, service or repair. The ares covered for vehicle collection includes Bracknell, Ascot, Winkfield, Warfield, Wokingham, Crowthone and Sandhurst.
New Forest Ride, Bracknell, RG12 9FR

Ravenscroft Motor Company

4.6/5

Our garage in Fleet, Hampshire provides MOT Testing, car servicing and offers a comprehensive range of car repairs. We work across all makes and models and have an excellent reputation throughout the local area for our efficient, professional and affordable service. Since 1979 Ravenscroft Motors has provided Fleet and the surrounding area with a variety of garage services and are proud of the strong customer loyalties that have developed over this time. When leaving your vehicle in our care‚ you can be assured that our team of dedicated professionals are committed to providing you with the highest levels of expert services at value for money prices. We hope that we may be able to assist you with your motoring needs and look forward to welcoming you to our Fleet Road service centre.
57-61 Fleet Rd, Fleet, GU513PJ

NK MOT LTD

4.6/5

At NK MOT Ltd we have experience in providing a comprehensive range of vehicle repairs and maintenance services as well as vehicle MOT tests to customers within the Reading area. We can undertake all classes of MOT’s, which include a free re-rest within the permitted time of 10 working days. Customer service is of paramount importance to us and we will only commence work once we have your consent. All work is undertaken using only OE parts and spares, at competitive prices. We have a team of 4 fully IMI qualified and experienced mechanics and engineers who can undertake all forms of mechanical repairs, maintenance work, servicing and MOT’s through to more complex engine rebuilds. All supplied and fitted parts come with a manufacturers guarantee, and we shall provide a labour guarantee to match this for your peace of mind. FREE vehicle collection and delivery is available for all local customers by appointment.
16 To 20 Longbarn Lane, Reading, RG27SZ

The Servicing Master Centre LTD

3.8/5

If you’re looking for a reliable Car Garage In Reading look no further, we are The Servicing Masters. We specialize in Servicing, Wheel alignment and tracking, Air Con recharge, MOT, Tyre, Body Work, Clutch and Fly Wheel, Water Pump,Timing Belt and all kinds of mechanical repair. No Fix, No Fee 12 Months Warranty Expert Repair Staff Spare Parts Supplies Free Collection & Delivery The Servicing Master is all about quality. From our technicians through to the parts and fluids we use. Whether you need us for a scheduled service or a repair you can leave your vehicle in our capable hands with confidence. Dec House, 145 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG1 8JF Mon – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00
181 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG18HD

Frequently asked questions about car alternator repairs

Driving with a bad alternator isn't a good idea. A failing alternator can make the battery drain fast, leading to a breakdown. Electrical parts may also stop working, which can be unsafe. It’s best to get the alternator checked and fixed or replaced as soon as you can.

When the alternator fails, the battery won't charge and will drain. This can make the car stall and prevent it from starting. Electrical parts like lights, radio, and power windows may stop working. Get help from a mechanic right away to avoid more damage.

Alternator reconditioning means fixing an old alternator by replacing worn-out parts. This can be cheaper than buying a new one, but it may not last as long as a new alternator.

The cost of an alternator varies by the type of car and the quality of the alternator. To know exactly how much, you should talk to your local mechanic.

Yes, alternators can be repaired if the damage isn't too bad. If the alternator is very damaged, it may be better to replace it.

Replacing an alternator is often worth it if the alternator is old or very damaged. A new or rebuilt alternator can work better and prevent future problems. Talk to a mechanic to help make the best choice.

Alternators usually last between 80,000 and 150,000 miles. But it can vary based on where and how you drive, and maintenance. Regular check-ups and fixing problems early can help it last longer.

Some alternator repairs or replacements may be covered under the car’s warranty, especially if the car is still new. Check your warranty details or talk to your mechanic to see if it's covered.

They’re often not covered by standard car insurance policies because they're thought to be part of your vehicle's upkeep. But, if it's damaged in an accident, it might be covered.

You need an alternator replacement when it's very damaged or has worn-out parts that can't be fixed. If it's not keeping the battery charged or causes electrical issues, you'll need to replace it.