The alternator works in tandem with the battery to charge your car’s electrical systems. While the battery is used to get your car started, the alternator keeps the electrical components running.

The alternator is generally low maintenance and should last anywhere from 7 to 10 years. At the end of its lifespan, or if it’s damaged or defective, your car will begin to exhibit telltale symptoms - first of which is flickering headlights. Your headlights may brighten and dim as you accelerate or decelerate your engine, or just get dimmer in general, hinting that insufficient power is being generated by the alternator. Another symptom is having a weak battery. The alternator helps to send power to the battery, but if it’s not functioning properly, it won’t be able to recharge the battery. You may also notice grinding noises coming from the alternator, which is made up of multiple moving parts such as the stator, rotor and bearings, any of which can malfunction and/or dislodge, in turn producing unwanted noises. A car that has one or more of these issues likely has a malfunctioning alternator.

If a new alternator is what you need, you’ll find it here. BE FORWARD carries well-conditioned alternators from vehicles across multiple makes, models and production years. Get yours with us now!