The alternator not only generates the electrical current that your vehicle’s electrical system and battery need but also converts the current from AC to DC. The alternator runs well your engine is running. Any additional electrical current that is produced is sent to the battery for when the engine is not running. The alternator can go bad after about 10 years of service. Here are the signs of a faulty alternator.
Dashboard Warning Light
One of the first things that might happen is your vehicle’s main computer chip may turn on the battery light. It will leave this dashboard warning light on until you replace the alternator.
Frequent Engine Stalling
You may also start to have problems with your engine stalling and idling roughly while it is running. This is a sign that the spark plugs are not getting enough power from the alternator. Consequently, they will misfire.
Growling/Grinding Sounds
The alternator itself might start to make sounds if it is breaking down on the inside. Specifically, the alternator can grind or growl. Because it is located in the front of your engine, you will hear the sound coming from the front of the engine.
Hard Starts/Dead Battery
If the alternator is not producing enough current, your battery will die because it will not receive the excess current to keep it charged when the engine is not running. Consequently, a faulty alternator can make it difficult to get your car started.
Malfunctioning Accessories
The alternator also affects how well your accessories perform. This includes things like your entertainment system and power seats. If your electrical accessories start to slow down or malfunction, the alternator may not be producing enough power.
Overheated Electrical System
Unfortunately, a faulty alternator can also produce too much power. When this happens, it overheats the electrical system. You may smell burning electricity inside your vehicle or coming from the engine. You may also end up with some blown fuses in the fuse box.
Strange Light Problems
Finally, the alternator also produces the power that the lights need to shine brightly. If the alternator is going bad, your lights may not be as bright as they normally are. A strange thing that can happen is the lights can flicker when they are on.
We would be happy to run an alternator test to check to see if your car’s alternator is operating as it should be. If there is a problem, we will replace the alternator.
