An alternator is a vital and fascinating automotive part. Why and how does it work? Our Bradenton, FL Sunset Cadillac of Bradenton service department team gets this question often. Here's what our experts have to say.
An alternator turns mechanical energy into electricity that recharges your car's battery and keeps your car's electrical components operational while your car is in motion. Your car's engine crankshaft spins the alternator's rotor via a serpentine belt. The rotor, spinning within a stator, contains deliberately spaced magnets. When the magnets pass over copper wiring within the stator, they generate alternating current (AC) that the stator captures.
The stator sends the power to the voltage regulator, or rectifier, which turns the AC into direct current (DC). This DC then powers your car's radio, heating, air conditioning, dashboard instruments, and more.
Alternators vs. BatteriesYour car's battery and alternator are both electrical. However, the battery uses its saved electricity to merely start your vehicle. It's the alternator that continuously creates new electricity to keep your car running over long distances.
