Jumping Bad Alternator

Ask Bob: The Auto Answer Man

Bob,
My battery was just changed. The alternator is probably bad and now I have a dead battery. Do I need it towed or can I get a jump and drive to repair shop? Will it work?
Lou

Lou,
If the alternator is bad and the battery is dead, as soon as you remove the jumper cables, the car will die (there is nothing supplying power to the engine). You can try putting in a charged battery if the repair shop is not that far from where the car is located. However, you still run the risk of getting stuck somewhere. If you decide to do this (to avoid towing charges), please keep all extra electrical items turned off (lights, radio, heat, fan, etc.)
Good Luck!
Drive Safely!
Bob, The Auto Answer Man

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