Zak is new to the CarBuzz team, working as a freelance content writer. When Zak isn't writing How To articles for CarBuzz he's working as a high school automotive technology instructor. Before ...

We earn commissions from purchases you make using links in our articles. Learn more. The alternator is a device that keeps your car’s electrical system running once the engine is on. It’s essentially ...

Disconnecting the battery while the engine is running isn't a valid test for alternator function and may damage sensitive electronic parts. Instead, use a common voltmeter and the following test ...

Production cars began using alternators in the 1960s. As part of the electrical system, alternators made it possible for cars to use higher voltage, and led the way to the modern car charging system.

Leaving a car running while parked may seem harmless, but prolonged idling can place unnecessary stress on several mechanical ...

It’s cold. It’s dark. It’s raining. Your reach down and flip on the fog lights. They help but not that much. So you power up the light bar. Yup! That’s the ticket. The stereo is cranked up and life is ...