Are you looking for Starter and Alternator repair in Utah? Ace Auto Repair handles repairs for all makes and models. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Two very important parts of the electrical systems in any car are the starter and alternator. Both are very important to start and keep your vehicle's engine running, as well as power important things like your lights, radio, climate controls, and anything else electrical within your car. Let's look at them in detail.

Starters and Alternators: What Do They Do?

Starters and alternators are part of your automobile's electrical system. As the name implies, starters actually provide the energy to start your car. Alternators, on the other hand, are important as they recharge the battery and they provide power to all your vehicle's electrical components. These two parts work together to not only start your car, but keep it running safely.

When you start your car, the engine needs to be engaged so that it takes in fuel and air into the combustion cylinders. The starter "turns over" the engine, causing the pistons to move so that they may compress the air and fuel mixture and ignite it. In essence, the starter runs the entire engine for a few seconds so that the combustion starts and takes over running the engine.

Alternators take over once the engine is running. They're typically driven by a belt and produces electricity using electromagnetism through spinning a rotor inside something called a stator. There are finger polls which have iron cores and wire wrapped around them that act as magnets. The rotation of the rotor inside the magnets causes electricity to be made which is picked up by the stator. This is the electricity that powers all the electrical components of your car and provide spark to the spark plugs.

Typical Signs of Starters and Alternator Problems

Alternators and starters often show different problems, but can also show similar ones. Here are some of the symptoms you might see if you have a faulty starter:Alternator-Electrical-Auto-Part

  • Engine failing to start
  • Engine cranking to start slowly
  • Whirring noise when attempting to start. Usually indicative of a bad solenoid

Some signs you might see if you have a faulty alternator can include:

  • Engine failing to start
  • Different electrical systems failing
  • Dead battery
  • Dimming lights
  • Engine cuts out and vehicle is "dead"

When To Replace Your Starter or Alternator

Sometimes you get warning signs when you need your starter or alternator replaced. They include:

  • Warning lights showing that the electrical system isn't charging or a sign that the voltage or amps are low on your system
  • Batteries are constantly drained and need jumping
  • Dimming lights, electrical systems working slowly or lacking power
  • Electrical systems failing
  • Problems starting when it's cold or hot
  • Car starts only after cranking the ignition several times
  • Nothing happens when you try to start the car

Any car with more than 50,000 miles may experience starter or alternator problems, depending on the vehicle. Some automobiles require more maintenance on their alternators and starters than others. When in doubt, check your vehicle's owner's manual for when diagnostics and perform regular check-ups. You may find that on your next service inspection that your vehicle may need a new starter or a new alternator.

Visit Ace Auto Today

If your car has any of these symptoms, visit Ace Auto Utah for Starter and Alternator diagnostics and repairs. We diagnose and repair all makes and models of cars and trucks. Whether you're looking for a tune up, alignment, oil change, or repair, we offer complete services when it comes to your car or truck throughout the Salt Lake Valley. We provide honest and affordable service fast with our reliable and friendly ASE Certified technicians. Contact us today to schedule a free in-shop diagnosis.

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