![]() ![]() Have it tested and replaced, if necessary. If it does, you could have a weak alternator. With the headlights, defrosters, and air conditioning on and the engine running around 2,000 rpm, the voltage shouldn’t drop below 13 V. While the engine is idling, you should measure at least 13.5 V. Alternator – If the alternator is weak or dead, it won’t charge the battery.You should replace a weak battery before it leaves you stranded. We suggest testing your battery every six months – just before winter is perfect, because winter can often push a weak battery beyond its limits. Battery Age – The average car battery has typical lifespan of five to seven years, so it’s a good idea to have your battery tested.The light drains the battery for hours and then you have no “juice” left for starting the car. We get to work or back home and park the car, and we leave the headlights or a dome light on. Left something on – This can happen to any of us. JUMP START CAR HOW TOThere are at least a few things that can cause a “dead” battery, so it’s a good idea to know how to jump start your car. Why Might You Need to Jump Start Your Car?ĭuring typical usage, the battery rarely discharges very much, just enough to start the car. The battery also absorbs electrical spikes from high-power items, such as the air conditioning compressor or turning off headlights. Secondly, the alternator generates electricity to recharge the battery. Primarily, the alternator generates electricity to run the vehicle, such as the ECM, fuel and ignition system, transmission controls, radio, air conditioning, internal and external lighting, windshield wipers, and so on. At this point, the belt-driven alternator starts spinning, generating electricity for two purposes. When you turn the ignition key, battery power is fed through these systems to get the engine ready for starting.įinally, after turning the key to “Start” and releasing it, the engine should be running. The radio and fan might come on, depending on whether you left them on before. When you turn the key to the “Accessory” or “Run” position, you’ll note various lights on the dash testing themselves, some relays may start clicking to power up various systems, such as the fuel pump. These circuits are always powered by the battery. If you step on the brake pedal, the brake lights will shine, and if you turn the headlights on, they’ll turn on. Computer module memory might be powered this way, so when you start the car your radio presets still work and the engine control module (ECM) already knows your vehicle running characteristics. Even with the vehicle “Off,” there are a number of things that are being powered by the battery, albeit at a very low state. Under the hood, there are two critical components to your car’s electrical system: battery and alternator, sometimes referred to as a generator. What if “nothing” happens when you turn the key? If you know how to jump start your car, and you have a jump box, second car, or a neighbor’s car, then you’ll be back on the road in no time. ![]() After all, every day you simply turn the key, the engine starts, and you’re off and running. If you drive to work or school every day, you probably never think twice about your car battery, much less knowing how to jump start it, in case something goes wrong. ![]()
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