When people think of where their car’s electrical energy comes from, most people think of their car battery. But it’s not the battery that provides most of your car’s electrical power; it’s the alternator.

The alternator takes the mechanical energy of the car and turns it into electrical energy. It takes this and powers your ignition coils, engine fan, headlights and various parts of the fuel injection system. It also powers comfort parts like your air conditioning system and radio.

Checking your alternator regularly is important because it’s not always noticeable when it fails. It can break down over time in stages; even when it goes completely, your battery will take over for some time.



The starter uses the complete opposite energy of the alternator. It uses the car’s electrical power and turns it into mechanical energy. This energy comes from the battery and starts the crankshaft turn, which moves your car.