Hector & Sons Smog Repair, Inc.
Alternator Repair & Replacement Manteca, CA
alternator replacement Services
Let our Experts evaluate the Health of your Car Alternator, Starter, and Battery
When your alternator fails, your car’s electrical system can’t function properly—leaving you stranded on the roadside and stressed about the unexpected situation. At Hector & Sons Auto Repair, we specialize in professional alternator replacement services designed to restore your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and safety, giving you peace of mind on the road. With over a decade of experience serving the Manteca community, our certified technicians possess the tools and extensive knowledge necessary to replace alternators on a wide range of vehicles, including foreign, domestic, and hybrid options.
We take immense pride in combining quality workmanship with top-grade replacement parts, ensuring that your vehicle’s charging system runs smoothly and efficiently for the long haul. Whether you’re grappling with flickering headlights, a dead battery, or concerning stalling issues, our dedicated team is here to quickly diagnose the problem and provide a dependable replacement service you can trust. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and long-lasting repairs means that you can drive away confident in your vehicle's reliability, no matter where your journey takes you.
By choosing Hector & Sons Auto Repair, you’ll enjoy:
- Expert alternator replacement for all makes and models
- Quick turnaround to get you back on the road
- Honest diagnostics and clear explanations
- High-quality parts for long-lasting reliability
- Friendly, customer-focused service
Your car deserves the best — and so do you. Trust our team to keep your vehicle running at peak performance.
engine Repair Services
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the signs of a failing alternator?
Common symptoms include:
- Dim or flickering headlights
- Battery warning light on the dashboard
- Dead battery (even after charging)
- Electrical issues (power windows, radio, lights acting up)
- Strange noises (whining or grinding)
- Engine stalling or difficulty starting
- If these signs appear, the alternator may not be charging the battery properly.
2. Can I drive with a bad alternator?
Only for a short distance — and not safely. Once the alternator stops working, your vehicle runs only on the battery, which will quickly drain.
This can lead to:
- Engine stalling while driving
- Loss of power steering or brakes (in some models)
- Getting stranded
- It’s best to have the vehicle towed and the alternator inspected immediately.
3. What’s the difference between a bad alternator and a bad battery?
A bad battery won’t hold a charge, even with a working alternator.
A bad alternator won’t charge the battery while the engine is running.
Signs of a bad alternator: Dim lights, stalling, battery light on
Signs of a bad battery: Slow cranking, clicking sound when starting, dying after sitting
A shop can perform a charging system test to pinpoint the issue.
4. How much does alternator replacement cost?
Cost depends on your vehicle make and model, but typically:
Parts: $100–$500+
Labor: $100–$200
Total cost: Around $300–$700
Remanufactured alternators are cheaper than new OEM ones. Some shops offer repair options, but full replacement is usually more reliable.
5. How long does it take to replace an alternator?
Most alternator replacements take 1 to 3 hours, depending on:
- Vehicle design (some are harder to access)
- Whether belts or other components must be removed
- If diagnosis or testing is needed
- Same-day service is common at most repair shops.
