A vehicle that dies when jumper cables are removed usually has a charging system problem. A dead battery is a symptom of a charging system issue, not the cause of the problem.

Why This Happens

The alternator powers the vehicle once it's started, not the battery. The battery stores power to start the engine; once it starts, the alternator takes over, powering the vehicle's electrical system. An alternator problem that does not produce enough electrical power cannot keep the engine running when the jump battery is disconnected. If the vehicle's battery is weak and the alternator is not producing power, the engine will stall when the jump battery is disconnected.

Keep in mind that a failed alternator can cause a battery to fail. Often, when a battery is drained to a point where it won't crank an engine, it is damaged to a point where it won't accept a charge.

What Needs To Be Done

This is a problem that will require an auto repair shop to diagnose and repair the charging system. The technician will need to charge and test the battery, check the vehicle's computer for error codes, test the alternator output, determine the cause of the charging system problem, and either repair the electrical issue or replace the alternator. The battery may also need to be replaced. This is not a roadside repair.

What Can I Do

If your vehicle has a charging system problem, you have two options:

  1. Your first option, if the battery is in good condition, is to fully charge the battery, which should give you enough time to drive a short distance to a repair shop. The distance you can drive before the engine quits can be maximized by limiting the use of accessories such as the air conditioner, heater, windshield wipers, headlights, and radio.
  2. Your second option is to have your vehicle towed to a repair shop such as Hoover Street Auto Repair in Ann Arbor, MI.

If you are unsure what to do, phone Hoover Street Auto Repair and our service advisors will help.

24/7 Auto Towing And Roadside Assistance in Ann Arbor

Your best decision is to have your vehicle towed to Hoover Street Auto Repair. Getting your vehicle to us as quickly as possible increases the chance of a same-day diagnosis and repair.

  • Our recommended towing company in Ann Arbor is Brewer’s Towing: 734-662-9715
  • You can also use AAA Roadside Assistance: 800-222-4357

Both towing services know our location in Ann Arbor and can assist you with dropping off your vehicle and keys so that we get an early start when we open.

Recommended Auto Electrical Repair Shop

Hoover Street Auto Repair is an Ann Arbor, MI auto repair shop.
Hoover Street Auto Repair provides auto electrical and charging system testing and repair for Asian imports and domestic vehicles in the Ann Arbor area.