Electrical Service

Your vehicle’s battery provides the electricity needed to start the engine. We recommend checking your battery with every oil change and consider replacing it every three or four years. At KB Tire & Auto, we specialize in car battery replacement and repair as part of our many auto electrical services.

Warning Signs You May Need a Battery Replacement or Repair:

• When you attempt to start your vehicle, there is a slow engine crank–the cranking of the engine is sluggish and takes longer than normal.
• The check engine light is on.
• The battery fluid level is low. Car batteries usually have a part of the casing that is translucent so you can keep an eye on your battery’s fluid level. If the fluid level is below the lead plates inside, it’s time to have the battery and charging system tested.
• The battery case looks swollen or bloated. If this is the case, it is due to excessive heat which decreases your battery life.
• The battery is leaking. Leaking causes corrosion around the posts (where the + and – cable connections are located). This gunk may need to be removed; otherwise, your car may not start.
• The battery is old. Batteries can usually last well beyond three years–but, at the very least, have its current condition inspected annually when it reaches the three year mark.

After starting your engine, your alternator takes over and generates power for the electrical system and recharges the battery. The electric system powers headlamps, light bulbs, stereos and other electrical accessories. Our alternator repair and replacement services can help ensure your car runs smoothly.

Warning Signs You May Need an Alternator Repair or Replacement:

• Your car shuts down shortly after being jumped. This may mean your alternator is failing; the absence of recycled energy makes it impossible to keep your car running once the battery’s main storage has been used.
• Your car’s electronic operations seem to weaken while driving–this could include dimmer headlights or high-beams, a poorly lit dash display, dim interior lights, the radio’s volume and display are hard to see or hear, or loss of electronic operations altogether.
• The alternator warning light is on. Most people see this light whenever it first comes on. However, it is frequently misidentified as something else. The standard alternator warning light is shaped like a battery, and appears on your front dash display. Although, in some older vehicles, it may display itself through the check engine light.
• You notice the smell of hot or burning wires. This is a sign that the alternator is overheating, usually due to a reduced electrical current or friction from a malfunctioning pulley or belt.
• The engine is producing a whining noise. This could be a sign that your crankshaft belt (which is attached to the alternator) is in danger of failure.

Your starter motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy used to start your engine. Basically, once you turn your ignition, the starter cranks the engine to start your vehicle. As a general rule, test your starter every spring to make sure it draws the right amount of current.

The wires in your electrical system connect the battery to the starter motor, the alternator to the battery, and the alternator to the starter. These large wires transmit several hundred amperes during cranking.

If you are having trouble with your vehicle’s electrical system and need a professional opinion, we are here to help. Our technicians provide quality service for your electrical system repairs. Contact us by phone or email, and schedule an appointment today!