Alternators And Starters: How Long Do They Last?

This is an interesting question since there is no counter that displays the number of starts in a vehicle or the number of times the alternator charges the battery. If you consider the number of times you start your car per day, times the days driving in a year, times the number of years you have owned your vehicle, you will only know how long that particular starter in that particular car lasted. And, of course, this will be different for every vehicle, as the starter is affected by the condition of your car battery and alternator. There are really too many variables to actually answer the question, “How long does a car starter last?”

Here is a Brief Description of How a Starter Works.

The car starter works by harnessing the power of the automotive battery. Once the key is inserted into the ignition switch and then turned to the start position, a tiny amount of current flows through the neutral safety switch and into the starter relay or solenoid. The starter motor then cranks the engine to enable the piston to create a suction drawing in the fuel and air mixture into the cylinder. The engine will then start as the spark created by the ignition system will ignite this mixture.

If a Starter Fails, It Generally Means:

1. The brushes are worn out. Brushes wear out through normal use (actually rub out like a hard pencil lead) so the useful life of the brushes could correlate directly to a number of rotations; or

2: The bearings are worn out. Bearings not only wear out during rotations but are susceptible to environmental degradation (salt air, dirt and moisture that gets past the seals, etc.).

Rotating electrical parts such as starters and alternators often have to be replaced on older, high-mileage vehicles. Fuel injection has helped prolong the service life of starters by allowing engines to start more quickly when they are cranked. Such is not the case with alternators. Higher electrical demands on charging systems have increased alternator failures. Are you wanting to know how long does a car starter last? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto for more information about starters and alternators and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.

About the Author

Tony Jones

Owner & ASE Master Technician – Express Auto Service & Repair, Mankato, MN

Tony Jones is the owner and ASE-Master Certified Technician at Express Auto Service & Repair in Mankato, MN. With two decades of experience, Tony shares expert car care tips here to help local drivers avoid surprises and drive with confidence.

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