Car won't start? Dimming lights? Battery keeps dying? We diagnose and repair alternators, starters, and charging systems on all makes and models.
Call (818) 500-1939Few things are more frustrating than turning the key and getting nothing. Whether it's a rapid clicking sound, a grinding noise, or complete silence, starting problems leave you stranded. The good news is that most starting and charging issues come down to three components: the battery, the alternator, and the starter motor.
At A Plus Auto Shop, Armik doesn't guess — he tests. We use professional load testers and multimeters to check your battery's condition, measure your alternator's charging output, and test your starter's draw. This way, we replace only what's actually failed, saving you money and getting you back on the road fast.
Complete starting and charging system diagnosis and repair at A Plus Auto Shop.
Your alternator charges the battery and powers all electrical systems while the engine runs. We test voltage output and ripple to determine if your alternator is failing. When replacement is needed, we install quality units that meet or exceed OEM specifications for reliable, long-lasting performance.
The starter motor cranks your engine to life every time you turn the key. Worn brushes, a bad solenoid, or a damaged drive gear can all cause starting failures. We diagnose the exact point of failure and repair or replace the starter to restore dependable starts.
A battery that keeps dying isn't always a battery problem. Parasitic drains, a failing voltage regulator, corroded cables, or a worn serpentine belt can all mimic alternator failure. We perform a complete charging system test to find the real culprit before recommending any repairs.
We load-test your battery to measure its cold cranking amps and overall health. If it's weak or dead, we install a fresh battery matched to your vehicle's requirements. We also clean and inspect battery terminals and cables to ensure a solid electrical connection.
Your alternator is driven by the serpentine belt. A worn, cracked, or loose belt means the alternator can't charge properly, even if the alternator itself is fine. We inspect the belt and tensioner as part of every charging system diagnosis and replace them when needed.
If your battery dies overnight or after sitting for a few days, something is drawing power when the car is off. We perform a systematic parasitic draw test to isolate the circuit causing the drain — whether it's a faulty relay, a stuck module, or an aftermarket accessory wired incorrectly.
Answers to common questions about alternator and starter repair at A Plus Auto Shop.
Common signs of a failing alternator include dimming headlights, a battery warning light on the dashboard, electrical accessories running slowly, a whining or grinding noise from the engine, and a battery that keeps dying even after being replaced. If your car stalls while driving, that can also point to an alternator that's no longer charging.
A failing starter typically makes a rapid clicking sound when you turn the key, or you may hear a single loud click followed by nothing. Sometimes you'll hear a grinding or whirring noise. If turning the key produces no sound at all, the issue could be the starter, a dead battery, or a faulty ignition switch — a proper diagnosis will pinpoint the cause.
Alternator replacement cost varies depending on your vehicle's make and model. Some vehicles have easy-to-access alternators while others require more labor. At A Plus Auto Shop, we provide upfront estimates before starting any work. Call (818) 500-1939 for a quote specific to your vehicle.
You can technically drive a short distance with a failing alternator, but it's not recommended. Once the alternator stops charging, your car is running entirely on battery power. The battery will drain quickly, causing your engine to stall — potentially in traffic or on the highway. It's safest to get it repaired as soon as possible.
A Plus Auto Shop is your full-service auto repair destination in Sun Valley, CA.
Don't get stranded. Walk-ins are always welcome at A Plus Auto Shop — just stop by or give us a call for fast alternator and starter service.