Book an Alternator Repair for your Volkswagen

£371.57

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.

OEM quality parts

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.

Mechanics you can trust

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.

Diagnostic check

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

Full error report and advice on repairs

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

View all garages

Darlington Mot Centre

4.9/5

Darlington Mot Centre Mot cars, vans , motor homes , motorbikes , trikes ,quads • Comfortable reception to wait in • Motorcycle class 1 and 2 only £25 • Class 4 cars and vans only £45 • Class 7 & motor homes up to 3.5ton only £50 • MOT's carried out up to 28 days before expiry - keep your original expiry date • Post card reminder service so you never forget your MOT again • Free re-test within 10 working days • No charge for head light adjustments We service and repair all makes of vehicles All makes serviced and repaired • Full and Interim service • Body shop repairs for those little scrapes, dings and re-sprays • Air-con new and old gasses repairs • Timing belts and engine repairs • Brake disks and pads • Exhaust and suspension • Tracking 4 wheel alignment • Tyres new and part worn • Batteries, starters and alternators • Diagnostics and engine management systems • Clutches and gear boxes

Darlington Mot Centre, 410 Whessoe Road, Darlington, DL3 0RP

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

G & R Autos LTD

4.8/5

We have over 17 years previous experience within the motor trade. We take on all makes and models of cars and short wheel-base vans. We can do anything from: Bulbs, brakes, exhausts, servicing, cambelts, welding, MOT’s and much more! We offer collection and delivery service within a 5 mile radius to reduce inconvenience you your working day.This service has to be booked in advance. For your no obligation quote call us!

Unit 18 G, Chapman Way, Tunbridge Wells, TN23EF

Witney Vehicle Repairs Ltd

4.6/5

Here at Witney Vehicle Repairs we have over 30+ years of experience, pride ourselves on our commitment to give the very best in car repairs, servicing, diagnostics, & customer satisfaction. Our pricing is very competitive with no hidden surprises, We look forward to earning your trust & gaining your custom. And now we are proud to announce we have become an RAC approved garage offering RAC inspections, repairs and other RAC products. Also we are part of the RMI & and trust my garage network, We are now offering a Shell / Forte vehicle service, parts & preventative solutions package please contact us for more information.

Witney Road, Standlake Business Park, Witney, OX297PR

Bolton Tyre & Exhaust Ltd (OPEN 7 DAYS)

4.0/5

Bolton Tyre & Exhaust Ltd. Is a reputable vehicle servicing and repair centre based in Bolton, Lancashire. Being an established vehicle service and repair centre we specialise in all aspects of vehicle repairs, incl exhausts shock absorbers, vehicle diagnostics, vehicle air conditioning systems, MOT Testing, and vehicle servicing and repairs to all makes and models of cars and vans. We focus on providing excellent vehicle services to all customers throughout Bolton and the surrounding areas of Bury, Walkden, Leigh, Wigan, Chorley and Blackburn.

Topping Street Off Brownlow Way, Halliwell, Bolton, BL1 3UP

Frequently asked questions about car alternator

Can I drive my car with a bad 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.

What happens when the alternator stops working?

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.

What is alternator reconditioning?

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.

How much does an alternator cost?

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.

Can an alternator be repaired?

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.

Is it worth replacing an alternator?

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.

How often should an alternator be replaced?

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.

Does an alternator repair or replacement fall under warranty?

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.

Is an alternator repair or replacement covered by insurance?

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.

When do I need an alternator replacement?

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.