Alternator

Just think of this scenario: You open your car door, step inside and sit down. You put your seat belt on, adjust your rearview mirror and then put the key in the ignition and give it a turn. Instead of the motor roaring to life, all you hear is a click-click sound.

Actually, it could mean a number of different things, including engine troubles or a dead battery. However, it could also mean your alternator is nearing the end of its life and it is time to replace it. The alternator is an important part that recharges the battery using power from the engine. It also provides power to the electrical components.

This alternator produces electricity that flows into the battery, which is then used to run the electrical components in the car. An alternator produces alternating current (AC) as opposed to the generator on older vehicles, which produced direct current (DC) and that’s where it gets its name. Cars with an alternator use a diode pack to convert the AC power to DC power, which is what the car’s electrical system components require to operate.

The alternator keeps the battery from losing its charge and eventually dying, because when the battery dies, all the electrical features included on your vehicle go along with it. It wasn’t that long ago when an alternator only had to power headlights, the radio and a few other accessories. But now, our cars come complete with GPS navigation systems, electric seat heaters and even DVD players. It’s easy to see how alternators and batteries have to handle a much heavier load these days.

When your alternator goes out, you may not be able to start your engine, or switch on electrical accessories like the radio or your GPS unit and you may even notice that the gauges are beginning to fail while you’re driving. If your alternator is failing, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to replace it.

Disclaimer Information: The above listed information is based on the average vehicle on the road today is 11.7 years; experiencing sever weather climate, and extreme driving conditions and driving habits. This is the opinion of Total Car Care Guaranteed For Life, Inc and you should always refer to your vehicle owner manual. Price estimation includes parts and labor cost to replace original replacement part.