How do you know if you have a bad Alternator?
The alternator is a key component in your car's electrical system. When your engine is running, the job of the alternator is to charge the battery and supply power to the vehicle’s electrical systems. Modern cars are loaded with sensors and computers that all require electricity. From lights to GPS systems, the alternator powers it all. If the alternator starts to fail, a lot of other things will stop working too!
If you know the warning signs of a bad alternator, you can have it replaced while it’s slowly going bad and avoid being suddenly stranded. How do you know if you have a bad alternator?
- The indicator light -- This light in the dashboard titled "ALT" or "GEN" is often the first indicator that the alternator is going bad.
- Dim headlights -- Dimming lights usually means the alternator is struggling to perform.
- Other electrical failures -- Other systems that are powered by the alternator may start to act up, including power windows, power locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, radio, GPS, etc.
- Strange noises -- Alternator failure can cause some of the bearings to fail in the engine, creating unusual rattles.
- Car stalls or has difficulty starting -- When the alternator is failing, there might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive, which can cause it to stall for no reason while running, or to have trouble starting.
- Dead battery -- A bad alternator can actually cause the battery to drain because it's failing to recharge it. If your battery goes dead, have the alternator checked when replacing the battery so it doesn't happen again.
If you are unsure if your starting problem is with the starter, the battery or the alternator, have your vehicle inspected for safety, performance, and peace of mind.
Wondering what are the signs of a bad alternator? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about the alternator, car starter, and battery, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
The alternator is a key component in your car's electrical system. When your engine is running, the job of the alternator is to charge the battery and supply power to the vehicle’s electrical systems. Modern cars are loaded with sensors and computers that all require electricity. From lights to GPS systems, the alternator powers it all. If the alternator starts to fail, a lot of other things will stop working too!
If you know the warning signs of a bad alternator, you can have it replaced while it’s slowly going bad and avoid being suddenly stranded. How do you know if you have a bad alternator?
- The indicator light -- This light in the dashboard titled "ALT" or "GEN" is often the first indicator that the alternator is going bad.
- Dim headlights -- Dimming lights usually means the alternator is struggling to perform.
- Other electrical failures -- Other systems that are powered by the alternator may start to act up, including power windows, power locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, radio, GPS, etc.
- Strange noises -- Alternator failure can cause some of the bearings to fail in the engine, creating unusual rattles.
- Car stalls or has difficulty starting -- When the alternator is failing, there might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive, which can cause it to stall for no reason while running, or to have trouble starting.
- Dead battery -- A bad alternator can actually cause the battery to drain because it's failing to recharge it. If your battery goes dead, have the alternator checked when replacing the battery so it doesn't happen again.
If you are unsure if your starting problem is with the starter, the battery or the alternator, have your vehicle inspected for safety, performance, and peace of mind.
Wondering what are the signs of a bad alternator? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about the alternator, car starter, and battery, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
