View content for TAKE CHARGE OF STARTING & CHARGING PROBLEMS.
If you're having a problem starting your car, it could be the battery, starter, alternator or another component of your starting and charging system. It's important to inspect each one of them before you begin replacing parts. Whether you choose to diagnose your parts yourself or bring it to us, AutoZone is here to help you find out what's wrong so you can do the job right the first time.
WATCH THIS VIDEO TO LEARN HOW TO INSPECT YOUR STARTING AND CHARGING SYSTEM
We'll Test Your Battery, Starter or Alternator FREE! We'll Charge Your Battery FREE!
*Battery test and charge available only in-store in California. Starter and Alternator testing service not available in California.
KNOW YOUR WAY AROUND THE SYSTEM
It's always a good idea to get a repair manual for your specific vehicle. Pop the hood and familiarize yourself with your starting and charging system. Learn about each component, what each component does and how to inspect for damages and other problems.
ALSO CHECK:
Fuses & Fusible Links - protect the circuits in the charging system. A fusible link is a fuse imbedded in a wire.
- Inspect fuses for breaks or gaps in the wire filament
- Test fusible links using a voltmeter
Dashboard - warning lights, gauges and LED readouts can provide clues to the source of your problem.
- Make sure warning lights go off after your car has started
- Make sure the voltage gauge shows a reading of 12 volts when the car is off and rises to 14 volts after it's started
- Pay attention to your Check Engine Light or Message Center Light; They can also indicate a problem
1. Battery - supplies power to start your engine and provides power to the vehicle's electronics when the engine isn't running.
- If your battery is more than 4 years old, then it should to be tested. You can do it yourself using a voltmeter or battery tester, or bring it to AutoZone to be tested for free
2. Battery Cables & Terminals - carry power to all electronics.
- Inspect for looseness and corrosion
3. Relay/Solenoid - allows power to go get to the starter from the battery.
- Inspect for looseness and corrosion
4. Accessory Drive Belt - drives the alternator and any other pulley driven device.
- Look for excessive wear, cracking and glazing. Also, make sure that the belt has the proper tension and isn't loose. A loose or worn belt can make a squealing noise.
5. Starter - provides mechanical energy to start your engine.
- Test your starter using an alternator/battery tester or voltmeter. A clicking or grinding noise when you turn the key is a good indicator that your starter is bad. Visually inspect your starter for signs of the problem. See the starter page for more information
6. Alternator - charges the battery and powers electronics while the engine is running.
- Test your alternator using an alternator/battery tester or voltmeter. A dead battery, one that won't stay charged, or headlamps and interior lights that appear dim can indicate that your alternator is bad. Visually inspect your alternator for signs of the problem. See the alternator page for more information
BATTERY
The battery supplies power to the starter so that it can start the vehicle, and it stores electrical energy for running accessories. Always make sure you use the correct battery for your vehicle.
STARTER
The starter converts electrical energy into mechanical energy that engages and spins a gear on the rear of the engine. This gets the engine spinning so that it will start.
ALTERNATOR
The alternator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. Alternators charge the vehicle's battery and powers the electrical system when the engine is running.
If you have any questions about your starting and charging system, stop by AutoZone. We have everything you need to help you do the job right including tools, tips and expert advice. Parts are just part of what we do.
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