Facing frequent battery trouble?
You might need to replace the voltage regulator.
Curious about the voltage regulator replacement cost?
We’ve got you covered!
We’ll review the cost breakup, factors that can affect your final bill, and some warning signs of a faulty regulator to give you a heads-up.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Voltage Regulator Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Voltage Regulator?
- Signs You Need a Voltage Regulator Replacement
- How Long Do Voltage Regulators Last?
- 3 FAQs about Voltage Regulators
How Much Does a Voltage Regulator Replacement Cost?
Let’s check out how much this service can cost.
A. Range
Depending on your vehicle’s make or model, the average cost of voltage regulator replacement can range between $150 and $480. This includes:
- Replacement part: $10 to $300 (depending on the type)
- Labor cost: $140 to $180
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Other factors influencing the average cost include:
- Type: The cost of electromechanical, electronic, and computer-controlled voltage regulators vary, with computer-controlled regulators being more expensive.
- Labor rate: The replacement may take around two hours. However, the diagnosis may add to the total labor cost.
- Additional components: A mechanic may repair or replace another electrical component, such as the alternator or instrument cluster bulbs if they’re also worn.
Is It Worth Replacing the Voltage Regulator?
Yes, replacing the voltage regulator is essential. A faulty voltage regulator prevents the charging system from replenishing the battery properly.
If the charging system output is low, it can discharge the battery, stopping your vehicle from running. On the other hand, overcharging can lead to performance problems, battery deterioration, and electrical component damage.
A faulty voltage regulator also won’t ensure accurate readings regarding speed, fuel level, and motor temperature, which could compromise your safety.
Signs You Need a Voltage Regulator Replacement
Common symptoms of a faulty voltage regulator include:
- Dead battery: A bad voltage regulator leads to inconsistent charging voltage and inadequate power supply to the battery.
- Irregular engine performance: This happens when a faulty regulator can’t control the voltage output level generated by the alternator.
- Malfunctioning instrument cluster: The cluster may not receive the right amount of input voltage and display inaccurate data.
- Flickering or dimming lights: A lack of voltage output regulation interferes with your vehicle’s lights.
- Illuminated battery light or check engine light: A malfunctioning electrical system triggers the battery light, while the check engine light may illuminate due to irregular engine performance.
- Corrosion: Any sign of corrosion on the positive battery terminal indicates overcharging.
How Long Do Voltage Regulators Last?
Voltage regulators typically last up to 100,000 miles.
However, extreme temperatures, a weak battery, or a faulty alternator can negatively affect its longevity.
3 FAQs about Voltage Regulators
Here are answers to some common queries car owners have:
1. What Is a Voltage Regulator?
A voltage regulator adjusts the alternator output voltage delivered to the battery. This helps prevent an excessively high or low charge from causing damage.
2. How to Diagnose a Bad Voltage Regulator?
To diagnose a voltage regulator failure, a mechanic will:
- Check for a dead battery using a multimeter. They’ll confirm if its resting voltage is 12.6 volts.
- Conduct a load test to check the car battery performance (voltage) under load.
- Test the vehicle’s operating voltage to ensure the alternator output lies between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. An alternator output outside this range indicates a faulty voltage regulator or bad alternator.
3. Can I Replace the Voltage Regulator Myself?
While it’s possible to swap out this component yourself, it’s best to have a mechanic replace a faulty regulator.
Here’s why:
- You’ll need to conduct several tests that require specialized knowledge and equipment.
- Accessing it is difficult, and could damage other components.
- You may need to replace the voltage regulator and alternator together because if one fails it can cause the other to malfunction as well.
- An improper voltage regulator replacement poses a safety risk since it affects engine performance.
Fix Your Voltage Regulator with AutoNation Mobile Service
Voltage regulator failure interferes with your car battery, electrical system components, and motor performance, making your vehicle unreliable to drive.
Why not have a mechanic come to you?
AutoNation Mobile Service’s mobile mechanics will address any vehicle issues right from your driveway. We also provide a 12-month|12,000-mile warranty on every repair.
Contact us for a voltage regulator replacement or any other auto services.