Starter, Alternator and Battery Repair in Athens, GA
Three parts get your car going and keep it going. The battery stores power. The starter spins the engine. Then the alternator charges the battery while you drive. Athens Import Auto Repair does starter, alternator and battery repair in Athens, GA.
Starter, Alternator and Battery done right, by people who know imports
Imports add a twist. Many BMW and Mercedes-Benz models need a new battery coded to the car. Some hide it in the trunk or under a seat. We know where to find them and how to do the job right.
Does it crank slow in the morning? Do the lights dim at idle? Call 706-353-3880 before it leaves you stuck.
BMW batteries live in the trunk. A new one must be coded with a scan tool. Mercedes-Benz ML and E-Class models use an AGM battery. Some carry a second small one too. Audi and VW put it under the hood cover or in the trunk. Mini Cooper batteries sit in the back on some years. Honda Accord and Odyssey starters can click when hot. Toyota and Lexus alternators are strong, but the battery still fails in Georgia heat. Athens Import Auto Repair on Winterville Road takes care of all of them.
Signs of a starting or charging problem
- The engine cranks slow, or you hear one click and nothing else.
- The battery light is on while you drive.
- The headlights dim when you stop, then get bright when you rev.
- The battery is only a year or two old. It still keeps going dead.
- You hear a whine from the engine that changes with speed.
- The car starts fine warm but not cold. Or it is the other way around.
What our charging system service includes
Battery and charging test
We load test the battery and check what the alternator puts out. That shows us which part is weak.
Battery replacement and coding
We put in the right size and type. On BMW, Mini and many Mercedes-Benz models, we then code it to the car.
Alternator replacement
When the alternator stops charging, the car runs on the battery until it dies. We replace it with a good unit.
Starter replacement
A worn starter clicks or grinds. We replace it, then check the wiring that feeds it.
Cable and terminal repair
Corroded terminals and worn cables cause slow cranks. We clean or replace them.
Drain test
If the battery keeps dying, some part is pulling power. We track it down.
How a charging system visit works
Tell us the symptom
Is it a slow crank, click, dim lights or a warning light? Each clue helps.
We test the system
We test all three parts and the cables for the weak link.
You approve the part
You see the test results and the part that failed.
We replace and code
We put in the part and code it if needed. Then we test again to check the fix.
Why drivers trust us with starter, alternator and battery
We code the battery
BMW and Mercedes-Benz track battery age. A new one must be coded, or it will get too much charge.
We test first
A dead battery is not always a bad one. So we test the whole system before we sell you a part.
AGM done right
Many imports use AGM batteries. They cost more and need the right charger and coding. We handle all of that.
These guys have helped our family out of binds numerous times. They are friendly, fair, accommodating and do great work!!!
Beckler, D., customerStarter, Alternator and Battery FAQ
Who does starter, alternator and battery repair in Athens, GA for imports?
Athens Import Auto Repair does, and we work on imports only. We test and replace all three, and we code new batteries on BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Call 706-353-3880.
Why does my BMW battery need to be registered?
BMW tracks the age of the battery and changes the charge rate over time. A new one must be registered so the car charges it right. If you skip this step, the new one wears out early.
How do I know if it is the battery or the alternator?
If the car starts with a jump but dies while driving, the alternator is the usual cause. If it starts fine after a charge and holds up, the battery was just low. We test both to be sure.
Why does my Honda click once when I turn the key?
One click and no crank often means a worn starter. On Honda Accord and Odyssey models, the starter contacts wear and stick, mostly when hot. We test the starter and the cables to be sure.
What is an AGM battery and does my car need one?
AGM is a sealed battery that takes heat and heavy loads better. Most BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi models use one, as do cars with start stop. If yours came with one, we put in that type.
How long does a car battery last in Georgia?
About three to five years. Georgia heat is hard on them. If yours is over three years old and cranks slow, have it tested.
Related services
Slow crank or dead battery?
Call us or book your visit. We will test the system, find the weak link and fix it.
Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. After hours, leave a message or send the form and we will call you back.
Send us a message
Tell us your car and what you notice. We will call you back during shop hours.
If the form does not show, call 706-353-3880.