
Many of us know the dreaded feeling that you get when you try to start an engine and nothing happens. Since this has happened to more than a few of us, including the staff at Volvo Cars Marin in San Rafael, CA, it's commonly thought that the battery is the most important electrical component in a vehicle. While it's certainly a key component, it's not the only thing that you need.
An alternator is another important piece of the puzzle. The alternator is a generator that sends electricity to the different areas of a vehicle. It's incredibly critical to have a good alternator because it allows the battery to be recharged when the engine is on.
Sometimes, alternators fail. If you're getting a warning light titled "ALT" or "GEN," are noticing flickering lights, or are having trouble starting your engine, it's a good idea to have a professional check things out. This way, you won't lose power when you're driving.