* The alternator is the power source for your car while it's running. It charges the battery, providing power to all the electrical components like lights, radio, and engine management systems.
* Your battery provides power to start the engine. However, a dead or heavily depleted battery won't have enough power to start the car.
* If the alternator fails, the battery will slowly drain. This means you'll eventually lose all power, including the ability to start the car.
However, there are some exceptions:
* The alternator might not be completely dead. It might be putting out a low voltage, which could be enough to start the car, but not enough to keep it running for long.
* You might have a jump start. A jump start provides enough power from another car's battery to start your car.
* Your battery might be very new and fully charged. In this case, you might be able to start the car even with a failed alternator, but only for a short time.
Bottom line: If your alternator goes out, your car will likely not start. You'll need to get it towed to a mechanic to have the alternator replaced.
