The alternator is a part of the charging system in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. It turns mechanical energy, or motion, into electrical energy -- in other words, into electricity. In short, alternators generate current. How they do it is straightforward.

First, the engine runs the serpentine belt and drive belts; they move a pulley, which turns a rotor shaft, which spins some magnetic coils. The movement of the coils produces a magnetic field whose energy a rectifier captures as AC power and turns into DC power. A voltage regulator manages the power.

As a result, the alternator can charge the vehicle's battery and help run its many other electrical systems, including the dashboard lights and displays, the car radio, power windows and power steering, windshield wipers, and even options like heated seats.

Unfortunately, alternators go bad periodically. Causes of alternator failure include worn or damaged parts, improper accessory installs, and jump-starting the wrong way. Luckily, alternator problems are easy to identify.

Signs of them include dashboard alternator and battery warning lights, car lighting malfunctions, car radio issues, a dead battery, a burning smell under the hood, and leaking alternator fluid. These aren't to mention engine squeals and electrical system failure. Even an overtightened alternator belt can cause them.

If you see such symptoms, inspect and test your vehicle's charging system. If the results call for alternator replacement, get the job done ASAP. Otherwise, change your alternator either every 7 years or every 80,000 to 150,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for more details.

Repair Your OEM Alternator with Genuine Mercedes-Benz Parts

Your brand designs its alternators to work with its car and SUV models from the start, guaranteed. So, you shouldn't trust anything less than the genuine article. You're in luck: you can buy one from Mercedes-Benz directly, right here at our auto parts counter. We'll ship it out to you immediately, so you can get fixed up and back on the road in no time.