Been using Reece for a couple years now and hands down best mechanic we've used. Highly recommend
Blake Grindley
Verified Google Review
Great and honest service and well priced! Took the time to explain what was needed and didn’t push anything.
Laura Hart
Verified Google Review
Reece is a fantastic mechanic! He has been servicing our cars for years now. His work is always meticulous! Highly recommend him!
Estelle Huizinga
Verified Google Review
When your car doesn't start, the first thought that comes to mind is that the battery is dead, which might not always be the case. It's important to have basic knowledge of other automobile spare parts that could be the cause of this common problem.
A car comprises a complex variety of mechanical moving parts. All these parts must work together for the seamless operation of the vehicle. The engine and its surrounding components are some of the most essential parts for the functioning of a vehicle. Alternators and starters are two such components responsible for mediating your car's start-up procedures and driving force.
Main Differences Between Alternator and Starter
An alternator is an electrical machine that functions to charge the car battery. It converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy, which powers the car's accessories and keeps the battery charged. The alternator is connected with the engine by an active drive belt and the engine pulley.
The starter motor is an electric motor placed on the side of the car engine. The starter motor rotates and starts the engine. The main job of the starter is to start the vehicle. If the engine takes time to start, it means there is a defect in the starter motor.
Signs of a Faulty Alternator
Dimming lighting system
The alternator is responsible for passing off the charge to the vehicle's battery. When the alternator doesn't function properly, it tends to deliver power unevenly. It weakens the power delivery from the car battery to other parts of the car, which results in dimming lights.
Unusual sound
A bad alternator makes an abnormal sound when the vehicle is running. Sounds like jammed components or the pulley grinding are some noises that can indicate a faulty alternator.
Discharging car battery
This is another sign of a bad alternator. Checking the car battery with an AVO metre will help you determine if the battery is affected by the alternator and if a battery replacement is necessary.
Signs of a Faulty Starter
Non-stop rotation
When the starter ages, it loses its contact ability. It happens when the contact points get burnt over time due to the passage of extra currents.
Rapid clicks
The starter works in conjunction with the battery and alternator to get things moving. If the vehicle clicks often, this may be because the starter solenoid is held back by something, primarily because it lacks enough electric current to reach the solenoid.
Gear block
This is a side effect of a burnt-out starter. It could be caused by springs falling into an immovable state and losing flexibility due to excessive use.
What To Do When You Experience Problems With Your Starter Or Alternator?
Not sure if you have a battery issue, alternator or starter motor problem? Contact your nearest Mechanics In Motion service centre, we are your trusted mobile mechanic for all starter motor and alternator problems.
We service the following areas: Baldivis, Madora Bay, Mandurah, Rockingham and Secret Harbour.