Starting & Electrical System
Service Overview
If your alternator stops working, so will your car. The alternator's job is to provide electricity to a vehicle's battery to keep it fully charged while the engine is working and to the electrical system to power the lights, stereo, and starter engine.
But there's a lot more to the starting and electrical system than your car's alternator. In fact, the core of your vehicle's electrical system starts with the battery. When your ignition key is turned to the "start" position, the battery releases a small electrical current that flows out of the battery core through the neutral safety switch to a starter solenoid or relay. This starter solenoid or relay transforms the small current into a high current and it pushes it through the battery cables to the starter motor. From here, the starter motor turns over the engine to allow a downward-moving piston to create the powerful sucking mechanism which brings the proper air and fuel mixture into the cylinder. Finally, the ignition system adds a single spark, igniting the air and fuel mixture, so long as there is proper compression and timing—starting your car.
If your alternator fails, your battery—the core of your starting and electrical system—can't stay charged, so the continuous combustion process cannot continue because your engine can't ignite without a constant spark.
How can I tell when I
need the service?
Although a malfunctioning alternator can stop you in your tracks, it also usually gives plenty of indications of a problem before it finally goes out for good. One indicator is a frequently dead battery. Without a recharging source, the battery simply can't hold a charge. Another indicator can be a metallic clanging noise that fluctuates in sound depending on the speed of your engine. This comes from an alternator shaft bearing about to fail, and is a frequent problem with aging alternators.
The optimal way to avoid being sidelined by a faulty alternator is to have it tested periodically by a professional. A convenient time to test it is during an annual (or more often for more well-travelled vehicles) tune-up, during which a trained technician can check the alternator's output directly.
What is included with the
service?
Our skilled and knowledgeable Fishkill Tire technicians will inspect your alternator output, starter and battery accurately using ED-182 Early Detection Battery & Electrical System Analyzer. In most vehicles, we can perform the Starting and Electrical System services inspection while the alternator remains installed in your car or truck.
As with all services you receive at Fishkill Tire, the parts and materials we install will meet or exceed Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications, and all used parts will be returned to you, upon request. All Fishkill Tire services performed are based on manufacturer recommendations or as needed, as determined by our inspection, and based on industry standards.
FAQ
Generally you should have your cars electrical system checked every two years or 30,000 Miles which ever comes first.
Most starting and electrical system diagnostics can be performed the same day.
Do I need to make
an appointment?
Appointments are not necessary but may expedite service for your convenience.
Are there any
driveability concerns?
With a broken alternator or starting system, you car will be stranded, unable to start and maintain engine combustion. Don't wait until this happens to you—contact us to schedule a Starting and Electrical System diagnostic appointment today!
How much does it cost?
-
Diagnostic Fee: $19.95 (most vehicles)
Fishkill Tire
Starter / Alternator Installation Service Discount
Special!
Simply print and redeem your coupon from our section above for additional savings
Please note: Coupon must be presented at time of service, and cannot be combined with any other offers. One coupon limit per person per order.