Complete Auto Center Pro Automotive Tips: Alternator
December 11, 2016
Your alternator makes electricity to start and run your engine and all of the vital electrical systems in your vehicle. That’s everything from the on-board computers to the turn signals. And of course there is the entertainment system, seat heaters, power windows, and everything you plug into the power outlets. After your alternator makes enough electricity to do all that, it recharges your battery with what’s left over.
When Waterford drivers constantly have a low or dead battery, the alternator is usually a prime suspect. However, the alternator is just one vital component of the starting/charging system and a problem with any of the other components could be the actual cause.
In addition to the alternator, the charging/starting system includes the battery, starter, serpentine belt system, and all of the electrical cables that connect them. Your Complete Auto Center Pro service advisor has a systematic process of testing components and connections to get to the source of your trouble. The initial symptoms determine where to begin the diagnostic process and he follows the procedure until he tracks down the culprit.
For example, diagnostic tests at Complete Auto Center Pro could reveal that the alternator is not generating enough electricity to keep the battery charged. Is the alternator bad? Not necessarily. A worn serpentine belt tensioner could be allowing the belt that spins the alternator to slip. So the perfectly good alternator is not spinning at the proper speed. The solution for Waterford drivers is to replace the serpentine belt system – not the alternator.
The good news for Waterford drivers is that our highly-trained technicians at Complete Auto Center Pro can properly diagnose all your vehicle troubles and make the necessary repairs to get you back on the road in Waterford.
Give us a call.
Complete Auto Center Pro
5100 Dixie Hwy
Waterford, MI 48329
248.623.1400
At Complete Auto Center Pro we install quality NAPA replacement parts.
Need Service?
More articles from Complete Auto Center Pro
Trip Inspection at Complete Auto Center Pro in Waterford
March 28, 2021
Waterford area drivers love their vehicles. And one of the most enjoyable things about them is taking a road trip. Freedom from daily schedules, new sights and the open road it's great! But there's nothing like vehicle trouble to bring the fun to a grinding halt.Now Waterford drivers can't alwa... More
Fuel Filter Service in Waterford, MI
March 21, 2021
There are a surprising number of small, inexpensive parts that can lead to expensive engine damage when they fail. It doesn't seem right.Fortunately a lot of those things can be taken care of in routine maintenance. They may not be easy to remember because it is a long list, but your service cent... More
Automotive Tips from Complete Auto Center Pro: Causes of Wheel Misalignment
March 14, 2021
When properly aligned, all of your wheels are pointed in the same direction. Your vehicle will track true and handle the way it is designed. Waterford drivers often associate our wheels being knocked out of alignment with an event like a major crash, hitting a pothole, curb or some other object. ... More