Car Alternator Explained | Car Parts For Beginners, Motor & Wheels (Peter Jones)

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Transcript

My name is Peter Jones, and today we’re looking at another crucial component in your car - the alternator. 

For those who might not be familiar with it, this episode will help you understand what it is, how it functions, and what to do if it needs replacing. So let's dive right in.

First things first, what exactly is a car alternator? Well, the alternator is a generator that operates in tandem with your car's battery to power various electrical components in your vehicle, like the lights, the instrument panel, and power windows. This nifty device keeps your battery charged and ensures that your car's electrical system runs smoothly. It is present in every vehicle equipped with a standard internal combustion engine and generates electricity.

So, You might be wondering, what does it look like? Imagine a device roughly the size of a coconut, adorned with a good number of vents on its aluminum body to keep it cool. It features a pulley on one end which is part of a rubber belt system that spins as the engine runs, allowing it to generate electricity.

Now, if you were to look inside the alternator, you find a large cylinder encircled by triangular finger poles - this is known as the rotor. The rotor hosts a series of alternating finger pole pieces, which are situated around an iron core on the rotor shaft.

But where can you find this essential device in your car? Typically, it's located near the front end of the engine. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, accessing it could either be straightforward or slightly complicated. If you're planning to check it out, refer to your vehicle's manual or consult a trusted mechanic to guide you.

You might also be curious about how long an alternator will last. Well, on average, they can serve you well for about 7 years or up to 150,000 miles, although some can even stretch up to 200,000 miles or more. But like all things, it wears out over a period of time, and you might notice signs like dimming headlights or dashboard lights, power loss to accessories, or even a flashing ALT or GEN light on your dashboard. If you encounter these signs, it might be time to inspect your alternator.

Speaking of replacing, a new alternator will cost you anywhere between $130 to $600, depending on your car type. If you're considering a more budget-friendly option, you might find a good deal in a scrap yard, ranging from $20 to $100. And when it comes to the replacement procedure, it would typically cost around $150 to $400, taking about 1-3 hours in labor.

But what happens if your alternator breaks? A faulty alternator can manifest through symptoms like dim or flickering lights, unusual noises or smells, and difficulty in starting your car. If you suspect an issue with your alternator, it's best to address it promptly to avoid further complications and ensure your safety on the road.

If you're someone who likes to get hands-on, you might wonder if you can replace an alternator yourself and the answer is yes! With a socket set, wrenches, gloves, and a new alternator, you can quickly undertake this task.

If you want to learn more about the alternator, there’s a link in the show notes to an article where I dive a bit deeper. There are also pictures to help you understand it all better. There’s also a link to an overview of all the car parts all the main parts so you can learn about them too. 

So, friends, I hope this session helped you understand the essential role of an alternator in your vehicle. Remember, maintaining a healthy alternator is vital to ensuring a safe and a  smooth driving experience.

Until next time, take care and drive safely!