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Can a car run off just the alternator?

My battery is having some trouble. I’m wondering if I’ll be able to drive home if I get a jumpstart. Can a car run off just the alternator?

Bonnie Stinson · Updated on Jun 23, 2022

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

A car can run off just the alternator, maybe, if you drive an older car.

The alternator does not require a battery to operate. However, your engine does need the battery to start the car. In other words, if you can get enough power from a

to start your car, then the alternator may be able to take over and power the car after that.

Remember that while a car can run off just the alternator, run time varies dramatically. You may be able to drive for just five minutes or up to two hours. It all depends on how fast and how far you drive.

If you have coverage for

towing and labor

, now might be a good time to use it!

Once you get to a safe place, now is probably a good time for you to review your

coverage. Do you have a policy that protects you from likely risks in the future? Use the

app to add coverage, compare rates from top companies, and switch providers with a single tap.

MORE:

What to do and how to stay safe if your car breaks down

View full answer

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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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