If the battery light is illuminated on your dashboard, the alternator or battery is going bad. In this blog post, we are going to talk about the alternator. This is the part in the electrical system that generates electricity. On average, it lasts approximately 100,000 miles or 10 years. Aside from the battery warning light, there are other signs of a malfunctioning alternator. Here is what they are.
Difficult Starts/Dead Battery
The alternator produces electricity while your engine is running. Any residual electricity that is left over is sent to the battery so it remains charged when the engine is not running. The battery can die and it can be difficult to start your automobile if the alternator is not charging the battery.
Malfunctioning/Slow Accessories
You will also notice a difference in how your vehicle’s power accessories perform. For example, your center console may stop working. The USB charging ports may not provide power. You may end up with slow power windows and seats. These are all signs that the alternator is going bad.
Misfiring/Frequent Stalling
It is common to have problems with the spark plugs, as well. Unfortunately, if the plugs are not getting a steady stream of electricity, they may start to misfire. This will make your engine hiccup. In addition, it will cause the engine to stall, especially when you are sitting at an idle.
Noises in the Engine
The alternator can wear out on the inside and start to grind. The alternator can also growl. You will hear these noises coming from the front of the engine because this is where the alternator is located. The alternator is attached to the serpentine belt, and it can squeal if it’s loose.
Overheating Electricity
The alternator can also produce too much electricity when it is going bad. Unfortunately, this will leave you with an overheated electrical system in your automobile. You may smell hot wires or burning rubber. You may also end up with some blown fuses in the fuse box.
Overly Bright or Dim Lights
Finally, the alternator supplies your vehicle’s lights with power. Consequently, the lights will respond to the amount of power they receive from the alternator. If it is too much power, they will be extremely bright. If it is not enough power, they will be dim.
We are here to help, so call us today to schedule an appointment for your automobile. We will replace the alternator if it has gone bad.
