Q: Bad alternator? 1996 Chevy Blazer

asked by on December 19, 2016

I have a 1996 Chevy blazer and the other day something got caught on the gas pedal and it was floored for 30 seconds on the way home it started running ruff and when i flipped on the head lights it died. i was thinking alternator and if so do i have to replace the whole thing? Ive jumped it and it works fine but when i unhook the cables it just dies. help!
My car has an automatic transmission.

Electric Problems Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there - the fact that the engine won’t stay running when jumper cables are removed suggests that either the alternator has failed, or the battery has a dead cell, preventing it from conducting current. Both components can be checked by an auto parts store if you take them in. however, given you had an "event" that may have caused other damage, I would recommend a electrical system inspection by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I switch between the high-beams and the low-beams?
When your headlights are turned on, they are naturally in the low-beam position. You can turn on the high-beams to increase the strength of your headlights, but only do this when you are not around other cars, as the increased...
Vent hose broke off of battery
The vents are so you will not get battery fumes built up inside the passenger compartment. Hydrogen gas may build up inside the car and can cause a fire hazard. I would not recommend driving it till you fix the...
VVT solenoid malfunction
Hi, thanks for writing in. Before a quote can be given, the code will need to be diagnosed thoroughly to isolate the cause of the code. On some of these engines the variable valve timing is caused by camshaft mechanisms,...
Strong gas smell when car is sitting
Hi, thanks for writing in. The strong gas smell may be an indication of a fuel leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-find-the-source-of-an-oil-leak-by-ed-ruelas) from a fuel line somewhere or potentially an evaporative emissions system leak. Check to see if you see any visible signs of...
Engine turns over good but won't start what might be the problem? It misfired one time and hasn't started since.
Your engine requires spark, air, and fuel to start and run properly. Air is almost always present so that leaves spark and fuel. Depending on the vehicle, if a crankshaft sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/crankshaft-position-sensor-replacement) is faulty, the engine control unit may not...
Shifter won't move - stays stuck on park.What could be wrong with it? 2004 Dodge Durango
Hi - having changed the brake light switch (most common source of this problem) and confirmed that brake lights are now working (if not, check brake light wiring - switch does more than brake lights), the shift interlock solenoid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-shift-interlock-solenoid)...
Noise in the left side rear when drive on a no flat street
Hi Carol...the best results are obtained, and costs for everybody are kept to a minimum, if you ONLY replace parts that are confirmed to be defective. If you have not yet gotten a conclusive, authoritative diagnosis from a certified mechanic...
Low idle
You should first want to check the engine for any vacuum leaks and then if the engine is equipped with an idle control valve test it for proper operation. If it is not working then replace the idle air control...
2000 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Need fluid recomendations
Here is the (recommended fluid chart)[ https://www.dropbox.com/s/aj2pl3u0rybj7pp/2000%20gmc%20sierra%20fluid%20chart.pdf?dl=0]

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're an Undercover Cop
If If you're an undercover cop, when you choose a used vehicle, your main purpose is to look like anything but a cop. That means, of course, that an unmarked Crown Victoria is probably not the wisest choice. We’ve evaluated...
How to Download a Chevy Owner’s Manual
When you buy a new car, you’re provided with original documents and books related to your vehicle. The materials you receive include: Your audio system operating information Your owner’s manual Your recommended maintenance schedule These manuals help you know how...
Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Drivers Drivers who are in the market for a used Chevrolet vehicle may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on...