When you crank the key in the ignition and nothing happens but an ominous clicking sound, you may need to replace the alternator.

Just about everyone who's owned a car has been there - you turn the key in the ignition, but the engine doesn't start.

You may enjoy dimming the lights for ambiance in your home, but when your car's lights aren't shining their brightest, this can be inconvenient and dangerous.

The most simple answer to the question "how does a car start?" is "by turning a key."

An alternator works together with the battery and a voltage regulator to provide power to the gadgets and gizmos in your car, such as the interior and exterior lights, the windshield wipers and the radio.