If you want to keep your car on the road, you're going to need a working alternator. While most people think of the battery or the start for starting their vehicle, it wouldn't happen without an alternator. The alternator provides an electrical current to recharge your battery and keep it going. It performs this with a rotating pulley that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Symptoms of a Faulty Alternator
Alternators are designed to last 7-10 years, and they don't require as much maintenance as other car parts. When the alternator is failing, you may notice some tell-tale signs. Below are common symptoms of a faulty alternator:
- Battery Warning Light On — Your dashboard messages are part of your onboard diagnostics system, and their role is to communicate to you when there is a problem with your car. If the alternator is failing, the light shaped like a battery or an electrical system warning message will illuminate there.
- Whining Noise — The parts inside your alternator have to go through a turning mechanism to supply power. You may hear a whining or grinding sound when they become damaged.
- Electrical Accessories Failure — If you notice that certain electrically powered parts of your car stop working, it might be due to an old alternator. These can be anything from your headlights, and windshield wipers, to the radio.
- Burnt Rubber Smell — The alternator has belts and pulleys surrounding it. When these fail, they may overheat and cause the rubber components to smell burnt.
- Weak Battery — Once your alternator stops working, your battery will soon die out. To determine if the battery or alternator is failing, please bring your car to the auto experts at Westside Car Care in Yakima, WA. You should jump-start your car to get it working temporarily.
If you're encountering auto electrical issues or believe your alternator is on its way out, Westside Car Care can help. We have the equipment and skills necessary to repair your alternator. Please do not hesitate to give us a call or visit today!