Forgetting to turn off the headlights and driving in frigid temperatures are two common reasons car batteries die. If a jump-start from another vehicle doesn’t fix the issue, a few malfunctions could be to blame. Call a towing service to haul the vehicle to a mechanic for further investigation. Technicians will determine whether damage to one of the following components is the reason the car broke down.

Which Auto Parts Might Be Damaged if a Jump-Start Doesn’t Work?

1. Battery

As car batteries only last three to five years, it could be time to replace yours. When an old, worn unit is cracked and corroded, it won’t be able to hold charge.

In the case of a newer battery, a damaged cell could be to blame. If it can’t convert chemical energy into electricity, attempts to pull power from another car won’t solve the problem. When cells get too hot, the battery separators can melt, causing the unit to short-circuit and fail. 

2. Alternator

When you insert the key in the ignition, the battery supplies the starter with power, which is delivered to the engine. While driving, the alternator re-energizes the battery.

This constant recharging can cause the alternator to overheat and fail. This is often accompanied by the smell of burning rubber. As a bad alternator can’t charge a battery while the car runs, a jump-start won’t resolve your issue.

3. Starter

This component is what cranks your engine to start the car. If you have faulty wire connections or broken electromagnets in the motor, the starter could fail. That means it can’t pull power from the battery and transfer it to the engine. Even if you attempt to jump-start the battery, your vehicle won’t start. 

If you’re experiencing car trouble in the Waukesha County, WI, area, the towing specialists at AM Towing will come to your aid. For over 20 years, this team has been providing drivers with prompt hauling services and 24/7 roadside assistance. They use specialized diagnostic software to identify the source of the problem. Call (262) 662-9770 for towing, or learn more about their work on their website.