In a car, an alternator provides power to the various car components and side-by-side charges the car battery when the engine is running. If the alternator is in bad shape, it’s common for the battery to dye more often due to undercharging. However, even though the alternator is good, the battery may keep dying.
What could be draining my battery and alternator?
A malfunctioning diode in the alternator can create a parasitic drain on a car's battery. Diodes should allow current to pass in only one direction, but a bad diode will keep the charging circuit open even when the engine in not running, allowing the battery to go dead. This often happens overnight.
Why would a car not start if the battery and alternator are good?
If your vehicle won't start, it's usually caused by a dying or dead battery, loose or corroded connection cables, a bad alternator or an issue with the starter. It can be hard to determine if you're dealing with a battery or an alternator problem.
Can a blown fuse drain car battery?
a fuse blows to keep current from going through the circuit. in other words, there's no way a blown fuse can drain the battery. take the battery in to get checked, it might just be a bad battery.
Related Question Why does my car keep dying with a new battery and alternator?
How long should I drive my car to charge the battery?
It's usually best to drive your car for about half an hour to charge a car battery. This is often enough time for charging so that the vehicle will start again once you turn it off. You should drive a little longer if your battery has been dead for a while, and you want to make sure the battery doesn't die again.
What is the difference between a voltage regulator and an alternator?
The alternator is a generator that produces Alternating Current (AC), similar to the electrical current in your home. A VOLTAGE REGULATOR regulates the charging voltage that the alternator produces, keeping it between 13.5 and 14.5 volts to protect the electrical components throughout the vehicle.
What does a new alternator cost?
When your car starts having electrical problems, it's a sign you need an alternator replacement. Considering the price of a new alternator as well as labor, you should expect to spend anywhere between $500 and $1,000 to get a new one for your vehicle.
Can a brand new car battery be bad?
If your battery dies soon after the replacement, you could have an alternator issue. Bad Battery: Alternatively, a battery that dies soon after replacement could be a sign of a faulty battery. Leaving lights on or chargers plugged in could be killing your car battery.
Can a starter cause battery drain?
Reasons Your Car May Not Start
The starter will draw a charge from the battery. The vehicle may still start; however, it will continue to draw too much power and will drain the battery.