The charging system provides the electricity that powers the starter motor and runs electrical accessories, such as lights, audio system, air conditioner, window defroster and other components. Its main parts are the battery, alternator and voltage regulator. If any parts of the charging system are worn, a vehicle will be hard to start or may not start at all. The battery stores the power that initially starts the engine, and the alternator generates the electricity that’s stored in the battery. The voltage regulator controls the amount of electricity generated to prevent overcharging and damaging the battery. Because the alternator on most engines is driven by an accessory belt, a loose or worn belt can result in too little battery charging.
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