It is important to have your starting and charging system checked by a trained technician on a regular basis, typically before extreme temperatures cause the car to start slowly or need to be jump-started.
For instance, heat, which causes water to evaporate, is the primary cause of battery failure. On the other hand, extreme cold temperatures reduce the effectiveness of chemical reactions, weakening the battery’s cranking power. Cars also require additional cranking power in colder weather. An old or weak battery can’t keep up with these temperature demands.
Starting and Charging Issues
A vehicle’s starting and charging system consists of the battery, alternator, starter and voltage regulator. Problems with starting or charging could be caused by wear or failure of any of these key components.
The battery, typically good for two to five years, stores electrical power for the starting system. The alternator and voltage regulator provide power while the engine is running and maintains the battery’s charge. The voltage regulator monitors the battery’s state of charge and directs the alternator to recharge the battery as necessary.
At American Pride Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians perform a series of tests to determine the cause of your vehicle’s starting or charging problem:
- We perform a check of your battery, using testing equipment that determines the battery’s condition and predicts the temperature at which it will likely fail.
- The battery terminals are cleaned and given an anti-corrosion coating.
- Battery cables are replaced in the case of corrosion damage.
- We check the alternator and belt; a loose, worn or broken belt is the most common cause of charging system failure.