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 for your Volkswagen

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

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

£395.79

Average price for this repair for your Volkswagen 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 for your Volkswagen

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic

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.

Vehicle diagnostic check

£99

For a limited time, get £50 off repairs over £150 when you book a diagnostic test. Offer ends 09/12/25, 09:00.**
Our mobile mechanics will spend up to 30 minutes checking your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need and give you a report for your records.

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.

And it’s not just alternator repairs we can do for your Volkswagen

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

Acton Service Centre

4.2/5

Acton Service Centre came under new management in 2012. A family run business that prides itself in offering excellent customer service and professional workmanship. Our highly trained engineers and technicians are committed to providing you with the solution to all your motoring needs. Based in Acton just off the A406, our modern reception and viewing area has been newly designed for the comfort of our large base of loyal customers.
17-18 The Broadway, Gunnersbury Lane, Acton, W38HR

Hardacres Garage.

4.9/5

Hardacres Garage is a family owned and operated business in the heart of Mid Devon serving the local community of Tiverton and the surrounding area. We pride ourselves in being open and honest. Our work is carried out by qualified mechanics who specialise in BMW, Land Rover and Isuzu's. All types of work is carried out including fabrication and welding, servicing and repairs of all makes of Cars Vans and 4x4s.
29-31 Leat Street, Tiverton, EX165LG

Millennium Garages Ltd - RAC Approved Garage

5.0/5

Millennium Garages is based in Southwark, London offering MOTs, Services and Car Repairs using industry-standard equipment and fully trained staff with over 40 years of experience in the motor industry. Since 2019, Millennium Garages Ltd has been a RAC Approved Garage. ALL Customers, Including RAC Warranties, are responsible for paying Congestion Charge and ULEZ when required for their vehicles.
Arches 43 - 47, Kings Bench Street, London, SE10QX

Car M.D. (Mossley) LTD

4.8/5

Car M.D. (Mossley) LTD in Mossley.
Car M.D (Mossley) Ltd, Mossley, OL59BG

AMS Autocare Limited

4.7/5

We specialise in naked Tesla wheel refurbishment
Grafton Street, On The Corner, Northampton, NN16AZ

Frequently asked questions about car alternator

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.