The vehicle’s electrical system consists of the battery, starter, and alternator. The battery provides the power to the starter. Then the alternator gives the battery energy it needs to power the vehicle. If one of the parts is not working properly, your vehicle will not start or may not run correctly. Bringing your vehicle in for scheduled services can help keep it running as efficiently as possible. If you notice the vehicle is having a hard time starting, or any other electrical issue, make sure to bring it in so we can inspect it to ensure everything is working properly. If there is an issue, we can let you what your options are to resolve it. If you choose to ignore the vehicle’s electrical system, a weak or dead battery can cause other issues for the electrical system parts. Bringing your vehicle in can help prevent further possible damage and a larger repair bill.
The Battery of the vehicle
Until the vehicle starts, the battery is the part that provides the vehicle’s electrical current. This electrical current includes the power to the ignition and fuel systems, which are responsible for creating the combustion necessary for the engine to function properly and efficiently. As you turn the key, the battery provides power to the starter that turns, and then the alternator gives the battery the energy needed to power the lights, wipers, and other accessories. If the battery is doing this frequently, bring it in so we can test it. It may need to be recharged or replaced.
The Starter is important too
While the battery supplies the power to start your vehicle, the starter is what sends power to the engine. The battery supplies a small amount of power to the starter motor. The starter then rotates and turns the crankshaft to begin the movement of the pistons in the engine. This process is what ensures the starter works. Sometimes it is difficult to determine when a starter will fail. If you bring it in for regularly scheduled maintenances, we can help to recognize any warning signs of the starter going out.
Don’t forget about the Alternator
When the engine is running, the alternator helps to keep the battery charged. The alternator also helps in keeping the electrical system for your vehicle powered. While you can start a vehicle with a faulty alternator, it will not be able to run for any extended period of time. If the alternator for your vehicle needs replacing, you may notice a few signs. You may start to notice the electrical system performing oddly or erratically. The battery may even start to discharge, which will result in poor starts, or sometimes not starting at all. Over time, the engine will eventually start to lose power. By bringing your vehicle in, we can inspect it to make sure the alternator is generating the appropriate amount of current and voltage is should. This way, you can have an idea of the issue before the alternator fails completely.