When people think of where their cars electrical energy comes from most people think of the battery, but the battery only starts your car, the alternator is what makes the electricity while its running.

 

The alternator takes the mechanical energy of the car and turns it into electrical energy.  It takes this and powers your ignition coils, engine fan, headlights and various parts of the fuel injection system.  It also powers accessories like your air conditioning system and radio.

 

Checking your alternator regularly is very important because it’s not always noticeable when it fails. It can break down over time in stages and even when it does go completely, your battery will take over for some time.