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

£398.33

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?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running.

Plus, with RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage when you need a repair. We’ll come to you, at your home or work.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

RAC Mobile Mechanic

Our top pick

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.
Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic running a vehicle diagnostic check

Vehicle diagnostic check

£99

For when you know something isn’t right, but you’re not sure what – our mobile mechanics are here to help.

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

Freelance Mechanics

4.3/5

In 2009 I started Freelance Mechanics Ltd, not quite knowing how it would pan out, but im glad to say we have gone from strength to strength.Going from me and my van traveling round helping garages when short staffed to now owning my own garage, where over the last 3 years i have invested heavily in training because although I'm NVQ level 3 trained,cars have moved on massively since staring in the trade 24 years ago.We are specialist in the following. 1) IMI (institute of motor industry) approved in clutch,flywheel and hydraulic systems. 2)DPF (diesel particulate filter) and add blue systems. Hybrid systems level 2 and 3. 3)Double clutch systems ie VAG groups DSG box (the only one in the area to be trained in this qualification. 4)Level 3 trained in brake systems. 5)We are specialist in gearbox repairs and we are also the areas only ZF pro tech centre,with on site support from ZF. 6)We are also mapping agents for bhp uk ,giving us exclusive rights to the area. 7)Terraclean service centre a unique de-carbonising system that can clean DPF filters as well as EGR (exhaust gas recurculating )valves. 8)We are members of the motor codes of practice and have just been inspected by the AA and passed with flying colours. 9)we offer a collection and delivery service to all customers and have 2 brand new courtesy cars on order so if your looking for a garage to fit anything from a from a bulb to an engine rebuild we are more than glad to help. For a limited time only we have 500 10% loyalty cards available please call
Unit 3D Park Rd Ind Eestate, Park Road Industrial Estate, Barrow-In-Furness, LA14 4EQ

Bayley's vehicle locksmiths ltd

4.8/5

Bayleys Vehicle Locksmiths are an experienced, reliable and skilled local business based in Hove, East Sussex. We cover the whole of Sussex, Surrey and Kent and offer a 24 hour emergency response. VEHICLE LOCKSMITHS – VEHICLE REPAIR – MOT AND SERVICING WE OFFER COMPLETE KEY CUTTING AND CODING FOR MOST VEHICLES, INCLUDING HGVS & LGVS. HAVE YOU LOST YOUR HGV KEY OR NEED A SPARE ONE? WE COVER THE WHOLE OF SUSSEX, SURREY, AND KENT AND OFFER A 24-HOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE. WE PROVIDE A FULL CODING SERVICE– ECU CODING – BSI UNITS AND CIM UNITS. ALL DONE AT OUR WORKSHOP OR WE CAN COME TO YOU. We offer complete Key cutting and coding for most vehicles, including HGVs & LGVs. Our team of experts can get your car fixed up in no time, so you can get back to your busy schedule. We also offer MOT and servicing services, so if your vehicle is due for its annual check-up, give us a call! Our expert technicians are only a phone call away when you need them!
Unit 1 D, Cambridge Grove, Hove, BN33ED

T & K Motors

4.9/5

T&K Motors have been established for more than 30 years and are a helpful friendly garage, we carry out MOT’s, servicing and mechanical repairs on all makes and models of vehicles. We pride ourselves on offering main dealer quality of work, at independent prices, whilst ensuring that your warranty remains intact by using genuine or manufacturer approved parts, and are usually able to save you over 60% in price comparison. Our mechanics are fully qualified with many years of experience behind them in the motor industry, who take great pride in their work. Our services include the following; • All makes serviced to manufacturer's specification • MOT VOSA class 4 and 7 Car and Light Commercial • Air Conditioning re-charge and leak testing • Batteries/Alternators checked and replaced • Brakes pads and discs, brake fluid changes • Clutch replacement and repair • Cylinder Head repairs • Engine management light diagnostics • Exhausts repaired and replaced • Free vehicle health check • Fuel injection diagnostic/repair • Oil and filter changes • Suspension spring replacement specialists • Timing belts and water pump replacement • Tyres fitted, balanced and aligned • Van servicing and repairs • Free Vehicle diagnostic checks • Welding repairs to MOT standard • Warning lights diagnosed and reset * Car Service, Van Service, Commercial vehicle service
47-53 Green Street, Ayr, KA88BQ

Oldwells Automotive Centre

5.0/5

We are a family run business, 2 generations of mechanics, priding ourselves on outstanding and exceptional customer service. Providing our customers with an honest, impartial, cost effective and mutually agreeable solution to your mechanical issues. We specialize in all types of makes and models including motorbikes, cars, vans and light commercials vehicles. We are based in Horley Surrey, utilizing local and national suppliers of parts to include main dealer. All customers are offered the choice of pattern or genuine parts.
Unit 5A Maple Business Park, Church Lane Burstow, Horley, RH69TG

PJ Automotive Ltd

4.8/5

We are an RAC Approved Garage carrying out work on all types of vehicles including commercial vehicles to 5 ton. We can MOT class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles. We specialise in German brand vehicles (BMW, Mini, Audi, Mercedes). We can however carry out work on any make.
Mount Pleasant, Hanley, Stoke On Trent, ST14AY

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 is 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.