Alternator Repairs

Without the alternator, your car will stop working pretty quickly.

An alternator is a generator of electric power in you car and is a major component of your vehicle's charging system. Whenever your engine is running, the alternator charges your battery and supplies additional electric power for the vehicle's electrical systems from the on-board computer to the seat warmers to the stereo.

Alternator

The alternator also acts as a starter in the powertrain of hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as those with idle stop-start technology. In these cases it’s powered by the batteries instead of a belt.

A conventional alternator is driven by a (often multi-purpose serpentine) belt, and it turns faster than the engine. It makes millions of revolutions that can wear out the ball bearings, ignition coils, or magnets. The alternator should be inspected and the belt should be replaced at regular intervals as specified by the manufacturer.

However, if the voltage drops or if the car becomes difficult to start, it means the battery isn’t charged properly and needs an adjustment or a replacement part. The certified technicians at Pawlik Automotive have the expertise to diagnose belt problems, test the battery, or replace the alternator.