Many car parts provide top-notch service without any issues for many years, but you might not be so lucky when it comes to the alternator. On some car models, alternators wear out faster than expected. How long can a car run without an alternator? Knowing this will help you stay prepared for the worst-case scenarios.
Car Alternator: What Is It and How Does It Work?
The alternator is a car part that provides continuous charges to the car’s battery. Thanks to the power it supplies, a car’s electrical systems and computers can operate. Its purpose is to keep the electrical system running.
When the battery starts the engine, the alternator keeps it running. If it becomes faulty, the car’s battery drains faster than usual. So, if your battery is having issues, it’s wise to check the alternator as well.
Typically, an alternator lasts about 100,000 to 150,000 miles, or roughly seven years. However, some mechanics claim its lifespan is shorter, around 80,000 miles.
Several factors impact an alternator’s lifespan. Some of them are the quality of car parts, the number of electronic devices powered by the alternator, and the car’s driving conditions.
How Long Will a Car Run Without an Alternator
Once the alternator stops working, the car’s battery is cut off from the electrical supply. It will run on its own for some time until it runs out of charge. How long can a car run without an alternator?
It entirely depends on the car battery’s capacity. If the battery is not fully charged, the vehicle may run for 5 to 30 minutes. The range will increase in the case of a fully charged battery.
Another factor affecting the runtime is the car model. Let’s see how long different car models will survive when the alternator fails:
Old Gasoline Car Model: Driving a gasoline car during the day will consume little battery power. Since there are no headlights, only the spark plug and the car’s computer will drain the battery. If the vehicle model is from around the 1960s, you can drive up to 50 miles with a fully charged battery.
Old Diesel Car Model: If you’re driving a diesel car that isn’t equipped with spark plugs, you can run it further than a gasoline car. If the car model is very old, there’s a chance you can run it until the fuel runs out.
Latest Car Model: If the alternator fails in a car made in the 90s or later, the battery won’t last long. Nowadays, brand-new car models are equipped with computers, sensors, and various electronic displays, which will draw power from the battery. As a result, the battery will last a shorter time.
Cars like the Mini Cooper are equipped with electric power steering that quickly drains the battery. Models with computer-controlled automatic transmissions will also consume more battery and allow you to cover fewer miles without an alternator.
Starting the Car Engine: When you need to start your car without an alternator, a significant amount of battery power is depleted. So, if you must operate your vehicle without an alternator, never turn it off once started.
How to Tell If Your Alternator Is About to Die
Now that you know how long a car will run without an alternator, it’s better to be aware of the warning signs of an alternator whose life is about to end. Detecting these symptoms at an early stage will save you from being stranded on the road with a dead car.
- Flickering Headlights. At night, the headlights will suddenly switch from dim to bright if the alternator is about to die.
- Some failing alternators stop working when you use them to charge multiple electronic devices simultaneously.
- If a burning electrical smell comes from your car’s alternator or battery, the alternator may have reached its end.
- The alternator warning light or other dashboard lights turning on also indicate a struggling alternator.
- If there’s a failing alternator in your car, the radio or other electrical components will sometimes stop working. It may also cause a squealing noise in the engine.
All good brands offer a decent warranty on car alternators, ranging from one to three years. You can prevent premature wear on your alternator by following these tips.
- Do not jump-start your car incorrectly.
- Do not overload your vehicle by installing additional electrical accessories.
- Check for a tight belt or fluid leaks. Both can damage the alternator bearing.
FAQ on Cars Running Without an Alternator
- What happens if you drive a car without an alternator for an extended period?
Driving without an alternator for an extended period can lead to battery drain and cause the car to stall. It may also damage the battery and other electrical components if the vehicle relies solely on battery power.
- Can you jump-start a car with a dead alternator?
You can jump-start a car with a dead alternator, but it’s a temporary solution. The car will run using power from the jumper cables and the donor vehicle’s alternator. Once the engine is cut off, the car with the dead alternator may stall.
- Can you charge the battery separately if the alternator fails?
Yes, you can charge the battery separately using an external battery charger. This can provide enough power to start the vehicle and drive it to a repair shop if the alternator fails. However, this is a temporary fix and does not solve the underlying alternator issue.
- Can extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, affect alternator performance?
Extreme weather conditions can affect alternator performance. Extreme heat can lead to overheating and damage, while extreme cold can increase strain on the alternator and electrical system.
Proper maintenance and protecting the alternator from extreme conditions are advised.
- Can you replace the alternator yourself, or is it a job for a mechanic?
Replacing the alternator is a complex task that usually requires mechanical knowledge and tools. While some experienced individuals may attempt it, it’s generally recommended to have a qualified mechanic handle alternator replacement to ensure it’s done correctly.
Conclusion
An alternator is an essential component of a car. Without it, your battery won’t receive the power it needs.
A dead alternator will also disrupt your car’s overall operation. When you have a good idea of how long a car will run without an alternator, you can make it to the nearest service station and get it replaced.