Starter Motors & Alternators

Starter Motors & Alternators Repairs and Installations

The battery, starter and alternator make up your car's electrical system and they basically rely on each other - if one of these parts is not working properly, your car won't start or run correctly.

A starter is an electric motor that turns over or "cranks" the engine to start it. It consists of a powerful DC (Direct Current) electric motor and a starter solenoid.  The starter motor is powered by the car's 12 volt system.

An alternator is a generator of electric power in a car and is a major component of the vehicle's charging system. When an engine is running, the alternator provides power to the battery and continuously charges the battery and the car’s electrical systems and computers.

The first signs of a failing alternator may be dimming headlights or the battery light staying on.

What are the symptoms of a failing starter motor?
❌ The vehicle does not start when you engage the ignition process.
❌ The starter stays on after the engine started.
❌ There are intermittent issues starting the vehicle.
❌ There is a clicking sound coming from the starter.

Have your vehicle checked as soon as possible if you experience some of these signs.

Your Vehicle's Starting & Charging System

Your car’s starting and charging systems and the battery secure the proper vehicle operation whenever you drive your car, under all conditions. These systems must be checked regularly.

The battery stores electrical energy and the starter converts that energy into mechanical force to help the engine start. The alternator produces electric current to replace what the starter used from the battery during start-up and to support electrical loads when the engine is running. An ignition module turns the low-voltage supply to the ignition coil on and off (petrol engine vehicles), and the coil produces the high voltage for the ignition system. This creates a spark at the spark plugs and ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine. A belt transmits power from the front of the engine to the alternator’s pulley, along with other accessories.

Driving habits such as frequent engine on/off cycles will cause more wear on the starter than a simple trip back and forth to work. Other factors that affect tear and wear of your car starting and charging system are:

• Driving and weather conditions

• Mileage

• Vehicle age

• Excessive electrical draws like in-vehicle entertainment systems.