What Does an Alternator Do?

February 15th, 2019 by

Alternator in engine

What does an alternator do? Driven by the serpentine belt, it works to send power to the car’s electrical system while the car is running. Despite what many drivers believe, the battery is only used to start your vehicle while the alternator is what actually powers it. Using gas as its energy source, the alternator functions as a generator. For more alternator information, turn to the service center at Honda of the Avenues.

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Common Alternator Problems

Are you worried your alternator is on its last leg? If you’re seeing any of these symptoms, make a trip to Honda of the Avenues near Orange Park:

  • Battery warning light appearing on the dashboard
  • Dim headlights or interior lights
  • Burning rubber smell under the hood
  • Devices not charging
  • Whining or screeching sound after the vehicle has started
  • Unable to start

Failing Alternator vs. Battery

It’s common for drivers to confuse a failing battery with a failing alternator. The easiest way to distinguish between the two is to wait until the vehicle is unable to start and needs a jump. Then go ahead and jump-start the engine, and remove the jumper cables after it starts. If your vehicle dies right away, the problem could be with your alternator. To have a certified technician take a look, schedule a service appointment at Honda of the Avenues near Neptune Beach.

How Long Does an Alternator Last?

Most alternators last between 80,000 and 150,000 miles, or about seven years. Though there are some conditions which can cause an alternator to wear out quicker, such as:

  • Alternator quality
  • Driving conditions
  • Power drain on the alternator

How Much Does it Cost to Replace an Alternator?

It is impossible to give an exact cost to replace an alternator since different cars require different alternators. However, you can call Honda of the Avenues for a free quote at (904) 717-5693. We carry alternators that are designed for your particular Honda vehicle, and our technicians can tell you how much is an alternator for your car. On top of that, our certified technicians have the training and expertise to install the part correctly.

Visit Honda of the Avenues for a New Alternator

If you’re planning to replace your alternator yourself, check with the Honda of the Avenues parts department to purchase a high-quality factory part. We can help you find everything from an alternator to Honda batteries at a sensible price, as well as keep you up to date on your Honda CR-V maintenance schedule, and Honda Accord service. Contact us at with any questions or stop by our service center near St. Augustine!

Service Specials at Honda of the Avenues

Wild Card

Savings Up To $100

You Spend             You Save
$100 – $249          10% Off
$250 – $449         12% Off
$450+                   15% Off

Excludes oil changes, tires, batteries, and maintenance items. Must present when order is written. Cannot be combined with any other offers or previous purchases. No substitutions. For parts and service only. Max savings $100. Other restrictions may apply. See dealer for complete details. -Offer expires month end

Brakes Special

$224.95

Front or Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Front or Rear Brake Pad ReplacementPer axle. Full brake resurface and rotor replacement costs extra. Brake replacement price may not be applicable to certain models. Non-applicable vehicles will qualify for the savings amount as a discount on your service bill. Offer not redeemable for cash and cannot be combined with one or more special offers. Prices quoted do not include tax and shop supplies, but savings amounts are accurate. Must present coupon at time of write-up. -Offer expires month end

Spring Check-Up Special

$49.95

Get Ready for the Holidays!

  •  Alignment Check
  •  Tire Inspection
  • Inspect Coolant and All Fluids
  •  Brake Inspection
  •  Suspension Check
  • Battery Check
  • Filter Inspection
  • Wiper Blade Inspection

Plus tax and any applicable fees. Must present at service write-up. Some makes and models may be additional. Cannot be combined with other offers. Price for Honda and Acura vehicles only. - Offer expires month end

Senior Discount On Any Service

10% Off

For customers age 65 or older. Maximum discount of $100. Offer cannot be combined. Please see dealer for details. Exclusions apply. - Offer expires month end

Military Discount

Receive 10% Off

Thank You For Your Service

Max discount $100. Parts and labor only. For Honda vehicles only. Excludes oil changes, other service specials, batteries, and tires. Valid on same-day purchase. Parts and labor need to be dealer-installed. Some vehicles have an additional charge. Plus taxes, shop supplies, and fees. Present during write-up. Not to be combined with other offers or discounts. - Offer expires month end

Ladies Day Wednesday

Purchase Any Service & Receive A Tire Rotation & Brake Inspection For $1 Per Wheel, Along With Additional Savings Of $20 Off Any One Service!

To receive $20 off any one service, parts and labor minimum is $125. Excludes oil changes, other service specials, batteries, and tires. For Honda vehicles only. Parts and labor need to be dealer installed. Some vehicles cost extra. Plus taxes, shop supplies, and fees where applicable. Present during write-up. Cannot combine with other discounts. - Offer expires month end

Over 75k Mile Club

10% Off

Any one repair for vehicles with over 75,000 miles.

Maximum discount of $100. Offer cannot be combined. Please see dealer for details. Exclusions apply. - Offer expires month end

Payment Plan Options Available

Get great rates and financing at Honda of the Avenues.

See your service advisor for details. Application and approval needed through third party. - Offer expires month end

Oil Change

$5.00 Off Any Oil & Filter Change

Plus tax, supplies, and environmental fees. Diesel extra. Must present when service order is written. One coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers or previous purchases. See dealer for complete details. - Offer expires month end.

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