What Is the Battery Charging System?
The charging system keeps a charge in your battery and provides electrical energy for the radio, lights and other features while the car is running. The modern charging system consists of the alternator, battery, wiring and electronic control unit (ECU). Older cars may have a regulator, but in newer cars, that is now part of the car's computer.
The alternator creates electrical power to run accessories and recharge the battery. It turns mechanical energy from the car's crankshaft into electrical energy.
The computer (or in older cars, the regulator) acts as a "traffic cop" to control the alternator's output. It senses when the battery needs charging or when the demand for electricity changes.
The battery is a reservoir of electrical power. Its biggest job is to crank the engine to start the car. The battery also supplies power to the accessories when the engine isn't running.
If something is not right with the charging system, you'll see a warning light. The warning light may be labeled "Gen", "Bat" or "Alt". If this warning lamp lights up while the engine is running, it means that there is a problem in the charging system, usually that the battery has gone bad or the alternator has stopped working.
Sometimes if your car or truck won't start, you have a bad battery, one that can't hold a charge. Sometimes it means you left a light or other accessory on, and it drained the battery. And sometimes the problem is really that the alternator isn't filling it up with new energy.
Not sure what the issue is? Click the button below to schedule a free inspection of your battery at one our stores.
Also Read: Parts of a Car Wheel and Axle
So, what does the service battery charging system mean? The service battery charging system in your Chevy includes the alternator, battery, wiring, and the electronic control unit (ECU). It is what keeps your battery charged and produces the energy necessary to run your lights, radio, and other essential electrical components when your engine is running.
What Causes the Service Battery System Light to Ilimunitate?
If you see your service battery system light come on as you drive around Livingston, it could be several issues, so the best thing to do is get your vehicle in for service as soon as possible. These are just a few of the issues to look for:
- If you only hear a clicking sound when you try to start your car, your starter might be broken.
- If your car’s electrical systems still work (like the lights and radio), but the engine won’t turn over, it could be a faulty ignition switch, starter, dead battery, or a blown fuse.
- A failed drive belt keeps the alternator from doing its job properly and can cause the service battery system light to come on.
- Check for corroded wires and connections of your car battery. Make sure the battery clamps are clean and secure.
- Remember that if you get a jump-start, you should keep your car on for at least 10 minutes to allow the battery to recharge after being drained.
Also Read: Pipe Joint
Don’t Drive with Your Service Battery System Light On
Driving with your service battery system light on could leave you stranded on the side of Cookeville roads. If your vehicle needs a new battery, has a faulty alternator, or wiring issue, it could stop working at any time. Make a service appointment with the Casey's Frontier Chevrolet Of Livingston service team immediately. We will diagnose the issue and have you back out on Sparta streets as quickly as possible!
Casey's Frontier Chevrolet Of Livingston is Always At Your Service
Car batteries and alternators don’t last forever. Fortunately, Casey's Frontier Chevrolet Of Livingston is always at your service. Now that you know more about the service battery charging system in your Chevy, don’t forget that our certified Chevy technicians are happy to help. Check out our service specials and contact us today!
Also Read: Different Types of Pliers