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Starting and Charging System
Perhaps the most critical system on your whole vehicle is the starting/charging system. If the vehicle won't start, none of the other systems really matter! While in some cases it's impossible to detect failures in this system before they actually happen, there are some things that you can do to prevent that dreded call for a tow truck.
Have the battery load tested. A load test will check the battery's output capability and make sure it still can put out as much power as it was designed to. If the battery fails a load test, it can be assumed that it will not last much longer and should be replaced immediately. If you notice when you start your vehicle in the morning that it seems to crank over slower than normal, this is a classic sign your battery is getting weak and you should have it replaced as soon as possible.
The starter is what actually spins the engine over when you turn the key. After the starter turns the engine over, the engine will begin to run on its own after the key is released. Under most circumstances it is very difficult if not impossible to detect a starter motor failure before it occurs. The most common signs of starter failure is an audible "click" sound when the key is turned to start the engine, but the engine does not start. If that happens, the most likely cause is the starter itself, but there are other components that can cause this condition and it requires a trained technician to determine the cause.
The alternator is responsible for replenishing the battery after the vehicle is started and also keeps it fully charged as accessories use power from it. Once again, it is rarely possible to catch a pending alternator failure before it actually happens. If a battery icon on the dash lights up, it is a sign that the alternator system has problems and will need to be diagnosed.
Have the battery load tested. A load test will check the battery's output capability and make sure it still can put out as much power as it was designed to. If the battery fails a load test, it can be assumed that it will not last much longer and should be replaced immediately. If you notice when you start your vehicle in the morning that it seems to crank over slower than normal, this is a classic sign your battery is getting weak and you should have it replaced as soon as possible.
The starter is what actually spins the engine over when you turn the key. After the starter turns the engine over, the engine will begin to run on its own after the key is released. Under most circumstances it is very difficult if not impossible to detect a starter motor failure before it occurs. The most common signs of starter failure is an audible "click" sound when the key is turned to start the engine, but the engine does not start. If that happens, the most likely cause is the starter itself, but there are other components that can cause this condition and it requires a trained technician to determine the cause.
The alternator is responsible for replenishing the battery after the vehicle is started and also keeps it fully charged as accessories use power from it. Once again, it is rarely possible to catch a pending alternator failure before it actually happens. If a battery icon on the dash lights up, it is a sign that the alternator system has problems and will need to be diagnosed.