What Does an Alternator Do? 

Alternator Replacement in Waldorf, MD  

Two Kinds of Power 

While many drivers think of their automobile being powered by a single source--the internal combustion engine--your traditional vehicle relies on two kinds of power. It needs both mechanical and electrical energy. Therefore, your car needs an alternator. If this component dies, you'll need to swap it out. Fortunately, the ASE-certified technicians at Mechanic Pros Mobile in Waldorf, Maryland, provide alternator replacement services in the very best place--where you are.   

An Alternator's Function 

The engine makes mechanical power, but the alternator converts it to electrical energy. The alternator's stator and rotor act as a set of magnets to produce alternating current, or AC. It is then changed into direct current (DC) to charge the battery. The battery is necessary for starting your vehicle as well as for providing power to auxiliary components like the lights and radio when the car isn't running. There's also a voltage regulator in between to control and stabilize the flow between the alternator and battery so that it is neither under nor overcharged.   

The Need for Repair 

If your vehicle's alternator is going bad, there are some signs you'll likely notice before it completely stops working. For example, your car may become difficult to start. While several potential underlying causes can cause this, it will eventually not start at all if the trouble is the alternator and remains unaddressed. Also, you may begin needing to charge the battery frequently. This is not normal, as a well-functioning system is designed to handle this task for you. Unless the battery is bad and not properly holding the charge, a failing alternator should be suspected. Further, you may notice dimming lights or delays in the function of electrically powered components. If you observe these signs, have us check your alternator. If it's bad, we'll need to replace it. While nobody enjoys having mechanical repairs done to their vehicle, we make it as simple as possible for you. In addition to bringing our mobile shop to you for service, we keep digital records so that you will always have quick access to the date and nature of any repairs. We also cover the work with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty. Best of all, we can help you seven days a week. We have extended hours Monday through Friday and are available on Saturday and Sunday. Perhaps that's one of the reasons why AAA approves us.  Don't take a chance that this may be your last trip with a failing alternator. Instead, contact Mechanic Mobile Pros for alternator replacement when you suspect a problem.