It’s a common scenario: you turn the key or press the start button and… nothing happens. Or maybe you hear a click, a sluggish crank, or your dashboard lights up but the engine won’t turn over.
So what’s the issue? Is it the battery, or is it the alternator?
At Snow Bros Auto & Electrical in Whangarei, this is one of the most common questions we get — and understanding the difference can help you act quickly and avoid a roadside breakdown.
Your car battery provides the initial power to start your vehicle. It also powers accessories like your lights, radio, and locks when the engine is off.
If your car won’t start at all, or the starter motor clicks but the engine doesn’t crank, the battery is often the first place to look.
Once your engine is running, the alternator takes over. It powers the electrical systems and recharges your battery while you drive. If it stops working, the battery will slowly drain — and even a brand-new battery won’t save you.
How to Tell the Difference
Here are a few key symptoms to help you figure out which one is to blame:
Jump-starting your car can give you a clue. If the car starts after a jump but dies soon after while driving, it’s likely the alternator. If it stays running once started, it may be a weak battery.
Need Help Diagnosing the Problem? Call Snow Bros
If you're unsure whether the issue is your battery, your alternator, or something else entirely, let the team at Snow Bros Auto & Electrical take a look. Our Whangarei-based technicians use the latest diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause — and fix it fast.
Located at 69 Clyde Street, Whangarei – give us a call on 09 438 2822 or pop in for a battery and alternator check today.
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