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Can a car run with a bad alternator?

I’m worried there’s something wrong with my alternator. However, I’ve got a crazy busy week and don’t think I have time to go to the mechanic for a few more days. Can a car run with a bad alternator?

avatar
Nick Kunze · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
With a bad alternator, a car can run until the battery dies. Driving with a bad alternator can leave you stranded!
The alternator charges your battery while you drive. Without a working alternator, your battery will quickly drain while in operation. You’ll likely get 25 miles on a fully charged battery without a working alternator. Once the battery runs out, your car will die (or won’t start back up).
You should head to a mechanic as soon as possible if you’re having issues with your alternator.
While you’re waiting at the mechanic, you should take a few minutes to lower your
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MORE:
Jumpstarting your dead car battery back to life
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