Brentwood
Brentwood, a charming town located in the county of Essex, is a thriving hub for car enthusiasts. With a population of approximately 80,000, it offers a close-knit community that values reliable transportation.
The most popular cars in Brentwood
When it comes to car ownership in Brentwood, our data reveals some fascinating insights. The Ford Focus takes the lead as the most popular car in the town, favored by Brentwood residents for its reliability and practicality. Following closely behind are the Volkswagen Golf, BMW 3 Series, Audi A3, and the Mercedes C-Class.
In addition to these popular choices, Brentwood residents also show a preference for eco-friendly vehicles, with a growing number of hybrid and electric cars seen on the town's roads. This reflects the town's commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
Vehicle numbers in Brentwood
Brentwood boasts a significant number of licensed vehicles, with approximately 40,000 cars registered in the town. This high number reflects the town's reliance on private transportation and the need for efficient and reliable car maintenance services.
Postcodes and suburbs in Brentwood
Brentwood is divided into several postcodes and suburbs, each with its own unique charm. Some notable areas include CM13 (Ingrave, Herongate, and West Horndon), CM14 (Brentwood Town Centre, Shenfield, and Hutton), and CM15 (Warley, Great Warley, and Little Warley). These diverse neighborhoods contribute to the vibrant automotive landscape of Brentwood.
As a car maintenance platform catering to the needs of Brentwood residents, we understand the importance of providing top-notch services to keep their beloved vehicles in optimal condition. Whether it's routine maintenance, MOT testing, or repairs, our platform connects car owners with trusted professionals who are well-versed in the specific requirements of Brentwood's automotive landscape.
With our extensive network of skilled mechanics and garages, we ensure that Brentwood residents have access to reliable and convenient car maintenance services, allowing them to enjoy their journeys with peace of mind.
What does an alternator do?
The alternator is the device responsible for generating electricity to charge the battery. It’s coupled with the engine drive, which means whenever the car is running, the battery is being charged. Without a charged battery there is no delivery of power to the electrical components or to generate the sparks used to combust the fuel in the engine.
How often should an alternator need replacing?
An alternator typically lasts around 7 years or between 100k and 150k miles.
The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT
Without a correctly functioning alternator, your car is unlikely to hold enough charge in the battery to drive for any purposeful length of time. Having said that, the alternator won’t be tested during an MOT, so as long as the battery has enough charge for the engine and other electrical components to run for the duration of the examination, then it can still achieve a pass.
We do not recommend this in any circumstance. If there is a problem with your alternator, you should have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
What happens when we replace your alternator?
Our efficient and fully qualified mechanics will test the voltage output of the alternator, inspect the car’s electrical systems and all alternator ancillaries (drive belts, cables, etc.).
Wherever necessary, the alternator will be replaced, and you will be advised of any other connected or associated problems arising from its malfunction.
You will also be advised of any other parts that may need to be replaced for the best operation and health of your vehicle.
Once the faulty alternator has been replaced, our mechanics will test it thoroughly to ensure the correct running of the new part and make any adjustments required for its premium operation.
What causes an alternator to stop working correctly?
An alternator might break down due to a bearing failure, preventing the rotor from spinning freely. Fluid leaks or a too tight belt (or a loose belt slipping) can also cause damage and premature wearing.
Symptoms of a malfunctioning alternator
When the battery is flat
If your battery is flat and refuses to accept charge through normal driving, then your alternator could be the problem.
The lights aren’t as bright as normal
If your headlamps aren’t as bright as normal or the function of other electrical components is weak, your alternator may not be supplying as much charge to the battery as it needs.
The battery warning light is illuminated on the dashboard
All warning lights are an indicator that a sensor has detected a failed component or poor operation. A battery warning light could be connected to your alternator performance.