Your Alternator Regulator Repair Specialists

So, your car battery is dead — but you swear you only just switched it out for a new one! Could the battery be faulty? That’s possible. However ifyou find you’re getting a flat battery more frequently, there may be another suspect - a faulty alternator regulator, will prematurely flatten a battery and is one of many issues that it can cause. While you can try to jumpstart your car each time it happens, sometimes it’s best to bring it in to your friendly mechanic at mycar for a look.

We will run diagnostics to find the exact cause of your concerns, getting you back on the road safer and sooner. Plus, with upfront pricing, and Zip and Afterpay available, you can get your car checked and repaired without the stress.

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What is a regulator for an alternator?

Your alternator is responsible for powering your car’s electrical system, while the alternator regulator maintains the power output of the alternator to ensure it runs at safe levels. When your alternator regulator is not running as it should, you may experience problems with your car’s electrical components.

The alternator voltage regulator is also responsible for charging the battery in modern cars. It’s why battery problems are one of the key indicators there may be something wrong with your alternator regulator.

Where is the alternator regulator located?

Your alternator regulator is located on the back of your alternator assembly and this assemblies location may change slightly depending on the make and model of your car. However, most alternators can be found in your engine compartment.

Your regulator is made up of two main components: a rectifier and the regulator. The rectifier converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC), while the regulator receives input signals to adjust the flow of current through the rectifier.

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What are some faulty alternator regulator symptoms?

Ignoring faulty alternator rectifier symptoms can lead to major damage of your car’s electrical components. So, it’s important to talk to your local mycar mechanic sooner rather than later.

Signs your voltage regulator isn’t working properly include:

A dead battery (especially much earlier than it should be).
Flickering, dimming or overly bright lights.
A burning smell coming from your engine compartment.
Strange noises coming from your car’s electrical system.
Increase in fuel consumption for no apparent reason.
Your engine stalls.
Slow cranking when starting your engine.

If you notice any of these problems, it’s best to call your mycar mechanics ASAP to help prevent further problems.

Something wrong with you Alternator Regulator?

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Alternator or voltage regulator troubleshooting

An alternator and a voltage regulator are two different parts of your engine. While the parts may do two different things, they both impact your car’s electrical system, so troubleshooting if it’s your alternator or regulator can be difficult if you don’t have the right tools or experience.

Here are a few quick ideas to help you troubleshoot these parts:

Check the battery: First, make sure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. A weak or dead battery can sometimes mimic the symptoms of a bad alternator or voltage regulator.
Look for visible damage: Inspect the alternator and voltage regulator for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. If you find any damage, it's likely the cause of your problem.
Seek professional help: If you're not comfortable doing it yourself or if you're unable to identify the issue, it's best to seek help. That’s what we’re here for!

What to expect during an alternator regulator replacement

At mycar, you can expect friendly and efficient repairs. When it comes to your alternator regulator needing a replacement, the process is fairly straightforward:

1. Our auto electricians will conduct an inspection of your alternator regulator to consider its condition.

2. We will then disconnect the battery to allow for safe removal of the alternator.

3. The old regulator will be removed from the alternator after detaching the connectors.

4. A new regulator will be installed and connected.

5. Once everything is in place and properly wired up, the battery will be reconnected.

If we find anything else while we’re working on your car, we will give you a call straight away to let you know and discuss your options.

How much does a replacement alternator regulator cost?

A straightforward alternator voltage regulator replacement will cost between $150 to $800, depending on your car. Parts for luxury vehicles typically run at a higher cost, so this is why the cost may be more to repair alternator voltage regulators in these types of cars.

You will know any and all costs related to your repair before you book in. If any other problems are found along the way, we will always call and discuss this with you before proceeding with the job.

Talk to your dedicated mycar team

mycar specialises in making car repairs as affordable and efficient for you as possible. This is why we have developed our cross-location distribution to ensure we always have the parts you need in stock, cutting down the time you’re without your car. Plus, all our work comes with our workmanship guarantee, which includes 24,000km or 24-month guarantee (whichever comes first) on all parts fitted by our team, including regulators. Now, that’s peace of mind.

FAQs

What happens when an alternator regulator fails?

Most commonly; your battery won’t charge and eventually die. Your alternator regulator controls the voltage output your alternator provides to your car’s electrical systems. So, when your regulator fails, your alternator may send too much or not enough voltage to these parts, which may lead to under performance or potential failure, like your interior lights, battery, etc.

Will an alternator work without a regulator?

Yes, your alternator will work without a regulator, but not optimally. Your regulator controls the voltage your alternator sends to your electrical systems, which is why your battery may die, lights may flicker or parts may become damaged if it is not repaired or replaced.

Can you use a voltage regulator on an alternator?

Your voltage regulator can be mounted to the inside or outside of your alternator housing. Where your regulator is mounted may depend on your vehicle make and model, and may require additional wiring to connect the two parts.