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AFFORDABLE AUTOMOTIVE BATTERIES

Need a battery for your motorhome or caravan or your boat and jetski? Whatever the reason you need a battery, we have them in stock and our team are knowledgeable on the best battery to meet the needs of your vehicle and purpose.

We stock one of the largest selections of batteries in Northland. We can fit the battery for you, saving you time and hassle - and a messed up sound system.


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Alternator vs. Battery – What’s Really Causing Your Car Not to Start?


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.

man-replacing-the-battery
What the Battery Does

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.

What the Alternator Does

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.

car-alternator

How to Tell the Difference

Here are a few key symptoms to help you figure out which one is to blame:

Signs of a Failing Battery:

Car won’t start after sitting overnight

Dash lights come on, but no cranking

Starts fine with a jump-start but dies again later

Battery is more than 3–4 years old

man-testing-the-battery
car-headlight
Signs of a Failing Alternator:

Battery warning light is on while driving

Lights dim while you’re on the road

Car stalls unexpectedly

Battery keeps going flat even after replacement

Pro Tip:

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

man-checking-battery

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.

Battery testing and replacements

Alternator repairs and diagnostics

Reliable, honest advice from qualified auto electricians

Located at 69 Clyde Street, Whangarei – give us a call on 09 438 2822 or pop in for a battery and alternator check today.

SPEAK TO THE AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICAL EXPERTS

CONTACT SNOW BROS TODAY!

We would love to help you with your automotive needs, from mechanical to RV to solar to AC. Snow Bros are your Whangarei service experts.

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SnowBros Auto & Electrical are leading Whangarei mechanics. They help you get on the road faster.

CONTACT DETAILS

09 438 2822

info@snowbros.co.nz

69 Clyde St, Whangarei

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