Can You Jump-Start a Car With a Bad Alternator?

According to J.D. Power, battery issues are among the top 10 most common vehicle problems drivers face. That is unsurprising since even the best batteries only last three to five years.There are many reasons for a dead battery, and not all have to do with the battery itself. The next most common cause is a faulty alternator.You may wonder, "Can you jump-start a car with a bad alternator?" The short answer is, "It depends." Keep reading to discover what issues you will likely encounter and how to address them.

What Does an Alternator Do?

A car's battery provides power to the electrical system, including the starter on your vehicle. That is why you can't start your car when something is wrong with your battery.Also, the battery does not have infinite energy. Like the one in your cell phone, it needs to recharge when depleted. This is where the alternator comes in.The alternator is a part, usually near the engine, that resembles a small, cylindrical generator. Its primary role is to convert energy the engine produces while running and recharge the battery. It uses a voltage regulator to ensure your battery does not receive too much power, which could damage it.Alternator failure can happen if they become damaged by heat or water. A dead alternator can also result from faulty electrical wiring or general wear and tear.

Can You Jump-Start a Car With a Bad Alternator?

When jumping off a car, you use energy from another source to send energy through your car's battery and power the starter. This is through jumper cables connected to another battery (either in a car or a portable one).For this reason, the main thing to consider when determining "Can you jump-start a car with a bad alternator?" is if the battery is still good. If it can hold a charge, then you should be able to start the vehicle once it has power. You will need to charge the battery as much as possible to get you to the nearest mechanic because it will not recharge with a bad alternator.Turn off all unnecessary electrical controls, such as the radio or interior lights. Also, besides these components, your battery operates your fuel pump, water pump, and power steering.If the battery is bad or depleted again, you will likely need to tow the car to a repair shop. Otherwise, you could risk serious vehicle damage.

Find a Bad Battery or Alternator Replacement Near You

Now that you have an answer to "Can you jump-start a car with a bad alternator?" you can plan accordingly. An experienced repair shop can better assess your situation and advise on the best course of action for repairs.For more than 40 years, Day Heights Auto has provided customers with the highest quality auto repair services in Milford, OH, and the surrounding northeastern Cincinnati area. We offer suspension, electrical, and brake repair and oil change services. Reach out to us today to schedule auto maintenance.