Alternator Trouble Signs

Flickering headlights? Strange noises? Stalling?

These could be signs of a failing alternator.

The alternator is a key component in running the electrical systems in your car. The alternator takes the energy from the crankshaft and turns it into the electricity that is stored in the battery of your car. When your car is running the alternator helps to power the different electrical systems in your car and keep your battery charged.

When your alternator begins to fail it can cause a variety of different electrical problems in your car, and eventually cause a breakdown. Alternators can go bad suddenly, or slowly over time. If your alternator is slowly going bad over time there are some warning signs you can look out for.

So, how do you know if you are having trouble with your alternator?

 

The Warning Signs of a Failing Alternator

 

Indicator Lights

Most modern cars have a dashboard warning light to alert you to a problem with your alternator.

Alternator Trouble Warning

Typically this light is shaped like a battery, although some warning lights may display GEN (for generator) or ALT (for alternator). The triggering of these warning lights is typically based on how much electricity your car is using and if your alternator’s output drops below a certain level.

 

Headlight Trouble

Your alternator provides the power to your headlights.Alternator Issues Headlights

One of the most common symptoms of a failing alternator is flickering, pulsating, or dimmed headlights. If your alternator is beginning to fail it won’t be able to power your headlights effectively.

 

Other Electrical Problems

The alternator is responsible for providing power to your car’s different electronics.Alternator Electrical Problems

Things like power windows and power seats might start operating at a slower speed than normal or stop working altogether. A dying alternator may also cause your car’s radio and internal lighting to stop working.

  

Smells

Smell burning rubber?

Your alternator works with a series of belts within your car. If these belts are not able to move in their intended ways, they will generate excess friction causing the belt to heat up. This can cause a burning rubber type smell.

Alternator Trouble

Smell electrical burning?

Smelling what smells like an electrical fire could indicate that a belt is slipping and may need to be tightened. In the event that tightening the belt does not resolve the smell or increase your alternator output then it is time to visit a mechanic.

Your local AAMCO Minnesota location can diagnose and repair your electrical system, including your alternator.

  

Dead Battery

The alternator is responsible for recharging your car’s battery.Alternator Battery Issues

Car batteries can (and do) fail on their own. However, a bad alternator can cause your car battery to drain and not be recharged. If you find yourself jumpstarting your car frequently or your battery dies, be sure to have your alternator checked.

Related: Signs Your Battery Needs to Be Replaced

 

 

Stalling or Difficulty Starting

Your car requires this electric spark to start.Alternator Not Starting

The alternator in your car provides power to the spark plugs that ignite the gas in your engine. If your alternator is beginning to go bad there might not be enough power in your spark plugs to start your car or keep your car running. If you find yourself stalling for seemingly no reason, it could indicate troubles with your alternator.

 

Related: Reasons Your Car Won’t Start

 

Noises

Strange noises coming from your car can indicate a variety of problems.

Hearing strange noises coming from your engine in conjunction with some of the other symptoms listed could indicate a problem with your alternator. Listen for whining, grinding and rattling sounds as these could all indicate a failing alternator.

 

What to Do If Your Alternator is Failing

Suspect that your alternator is failing or has failed?

AAMCO Minnesota has top quality mechanics and equipment to diagnose and repair any problems to your cars electrical system. Including:

  • Alternator
  • Drive Belt
  • Voltage Regulator
  • Starter
  • Ignition Switch
  • Neutral Safety Switch
  • Battery Cables & Terminals

Schedule an appointment with your local AAMCO Minnesota location to have your alternator or other electrical systems checked for performance and safety today.

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