Your Car’s Other Power Plant: The Alternator Explained Introduction When it comes to your vehicle’s power, the engine usually gets all the glory. But did you know your car has another power source under the hood? We’re talking about the alternator, a vital yet often overlooked component. The alternator is essentially your car’s on-board electrical generator. It supplies the electricity for your headlights, radio, power windows, and all the other accessories – and it keeps your battery charged up for the next start. In other words, once your engine is running, the alternator takes over as the main source of electrical power, while the battery gets a much-needed recharge. In this post, we’ll explain why the alternator is so important, how to spot signs of a failing alternator, and how modern alternators are smarter (and more computer-integrated) than ever. We’ll also discuss why proper testing is crucial before replacing an alternator. What Do ... read more