Your car, truck, or SUV’s alternator keeps the electrical system electrified. It produces voltage to power the battery and other electrical components. In most cases, the alternator will tell you it’s dying – you just need to know the signs. University Auto Repair lists these signs below, so you have the information you need to avoid alternator trouble before it happens, at least hopefully.
Lights Definitely Signal Alternator Trouble
As with the lights in your home, your vehicle’s lights will dim or flicker if they aren’t getting the electricity they need. The alternator powers them and if it’s weak or failing, you might notice an issue with your exterior and interior lights, including a dimmer dashboard at night. This warning could be subtle, barely noticeable until the lights are really dim.
Electrical Components Will Fail, Too
Your electrical components also respond to how much electricity they get from the alternator with alternator trouble. In some cases, they may slow down or stall completely. For example, if your power windows aren’t getting enough juice, they’ll take longer to open and close. It’s the same with your power seats and your seat warmers and other accessories.
Your Battery Will Be Affected
The alternator charges the battery. As you drive along, the alternator takes the discharged energy coming from the battery and circulates it back into the battery. If the alternator is on the fritz, your battery will lose its charge and die. An inability to start your vehicle isn’t always the battery. It might also be the alternator, fuel pump, or starter.
You Might Hear or Smell Something
If the alternator is dying, it might give you an auditory or olfactory cue. If there is a problem with the parts spinning inside your vehicle’s alternator, you might hear them squeal or grind. If the belts are compromised, they may overheat and you will smell burning rubber or hot electrical components. Turn off your vehicle immediately if you smell burning.
You Might Also See a Dashboard Warning Light
Finally, some vehicles have a dashboard warning light assigned to the alternator. This light reads “ALT” or “GEN.” If this light comes on, you’ve got trouble brewing in your alternator or in another part of your car, truck, or SUV’s electrical system. Your “Check Engine” light might come on, as well, if you don’t either of the other warning lights.
University Auto Repair in Flagstaff, AZ, tests and replaces alternators. Call us to set up an appointment. We’d be happy to check your vehicle’s electrical system.
