Battery, alternator and starter: repair costs

Starting and charging: the parts behind a car that will not start. Typical ranges across the US.

• Battery replacement$150 to $470. A weak or dead 12-volt car battery is replaced. Slow cranking, dim lights, a clicking sound or a battery older than 4-5 years are common signs.
• Alternator replacement$360 to $930. The alternator charges the battery while the engine runs. A failing one causes a battery light, dim lights, or a car that dies while driving.
• Starter replacement$280 to $740. The starter motor turns the engine over to start it. A bad one causes clicking, a single click, or no sound at all when you turn the key.
• Battery cable replacement$100 to $340. A corroded or damaged battery cable is replaced. Signs include slow cranking, no start with a good battery, or green and white crust at the terminal.

Other repair types

• Diagnostics
• Maintenance
• Brakes
• Engine, timing and cooling
• Ignition, fuel and air
• Emissions
• Suspension, tires and alignment
• A/C and heating
• Transmission
• ABS, airbag and electrical
• EV and hybrid

Typical range, estimate. Prices updated October 2026. Not a repair shop, estimates only.