Why are Alternators and Starters so Important?

Starting problems? Your car's starting and charging systems, consisting of three basic components, the alternator, starter, and battery help ensure a dependable vehicle whenever you drive your car and in all sorts of driving conditions. It's important to have these two systems checked regularly by a qualified auto mechanic so you don't find yourself stranded by the side of the road with a dead battery.

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 Here is a simple description of these three components:

Alternator – This is an old term for electric generator that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy producing alternating current. Alternators are mainly used for recharging batteries and to power electrical loads of vehicles.

Battery – The battery stores electrical energy.

Starter – The starter converts the energy stored in the battery into mechanical force to turn the engine for starting.

It takes teamwork!

These three components work together as the alternator produces electric current to replace what the starter used during start-up and to support electrical loads when the engine is running. An ignition module turns the low-voltage supply to the ignition coil on and off, and the coil produces the high voltage for the ignition system. This creates a spark at the spark plugs and ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine. A belt transmits power from the front of the engine to the alternator's pulley, along with other accessories.

Causes of Wear --

    * Frequent engine on/off cycles

    * Driving habits

    * Weather conditions

    * Mileage

    * Vehicle age

    * Excessive electrical draws like in-vehicle entertainment systems

Symptoms of Wear --

    * Headlights and interior lights dim

    * "Check Engine" and/or battery light may come on

    * Accessories fail to operate

For questions about starters and alternators, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.