Alternators

An alternator plays a vital role in your vehicle’s performance as it generates the electricity required to charge your vehicle’s battery. MoparGenuineParts offers an array of genuine Mopar alternators that are compatible with select model-years of the Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee, Dodge Challenger, and Ram 1500, just to name a few. 

How to Identify a Failing Car Alternator

An alternator’s main function is to recharge the battery while it’s being used. The rotor, one of its parts, is connected to a crankshaft that sends explosive energy through combustion to the serpentine belt. This creates a spinning motion that generates power using a magnet and copper wire coil. As a result, mechanical energy is transformed into electrical energy.

On the other end of the alternator is a rectifier. The rectifier (also called a diode) converts AC electricity to DC electricity. The latter is a form of power that the vehicle can use and is stored in the battery. DC electricity is used to power various vehicle accessories like the headlights, the air-conditioning system, and the entertainment system. While this type of electrical generator can last around seven years (or 150,000 miles), certain factors can contribute to its premature failure. Bad diodes, for instance, are a common occurrence. Another is a faulty voltage regulator that can cause charging issues.

There are several signs you should watch out for that will alert you to a faulty alternator. If you’re hearing odd noises coming from the engine bay, there’s a chance that it’s caused by the alternator’s parts being restricted. Other clues include dim headlights when the car is idle, the vehicle experiencing difficulty starting (this could also be caused by a dying battery), activated dashboard warning lights, and in severe cases, a burning odor.

Purchase a Genuine Mopar Alternator that’s Designed to Last

MoparGenuineParts carries a wide range of factory-grade alternators and related accessories for your vehicle. As they’re OEM, the parts were manufactured by the original producer of your vehicle’s parts, guaranteeing a superior service life. Our products are also available at great discounts, helping you save money. Check out our well-stocked inventory and shop for other Mopar parts online.