We’ve all been in a situation before where our car just won’t start, and it always seems to happen at the worst times. In most cases, it is usually your battery that’s dead and a simple jumpstart can get you back on the road again. However, in other more particular cases, it could actually be the alternator… but how would you know exactly? A car battery lasts on average of about five years. They are not made to hold a charge for very long periods of time and that is where the alternator comes into play. The alternator recharges the car’s battery by converting energy while you drive. Just like with anything overtime, the internal metal parts of a battery corrode thus reducing its ability to hold a charge. If jumpstarting your vehicle gets it running, but the car won’t start again after you turn it off that is a big sign that your battery is probably the problem.
However, a dead alternator is also a possibility. You could have a good standing battery, but if your alternator is not working properly then the battery will lose its charge because the alternator isn’t doing its job by charging the battery while you drive. If you jump start your vehicle but the engine dies right after the jump, then it is most likely the alternator. In addition, the smell of burning rubber or hot wires can come from your alternator overheating, and in most cases, you can hear a growling sound right before your alternator goes out.
Whatever the case may be, we are here to assist you in any situation. Our professional mechanics can get your problem fixed and get you back on the road whatever the problem is. Have a dead battery or your car won’t start? Give us a call and we would be more than happy to assist you!