Guaranteed Auto Air & Repair advises that a battery that dies constantly is a sign that the alternator is going bad. If your battery is relatively new and capable of holding a charge, the only reason it will die is if the alternator is not charging it or there is a problem with the terminals or terminal connectors. Usually, the former is the issue. This is just one sign that the alternator is malfunctioning. Here are others.
Bright, Dim, or Flickering Lights
You may notice a difference in your vehicle’s lights if the alternator is going bad. For example, the lights may be extremely bright, very dim, or they may flicker between bright and dim. This is a sign that the alternator is unable to produce steady power and provide it to the vehicle’s lights.
Burning Wires/Burning Rubber Odors
One sign that the alternator is producing too much voltage is lights that are too bright. Another sign that the alternator is producing voltage above the maximum 14.5 volts that it should produce is burning electricity. You will smell burning wires and burning rubber in the engine.
Illuminated Battery Warning Light
You may also end up with the dashboard warning that the alternator is going bad. This can be an illuminated battery light, an illuminated ALT light, or an illuminated GEN light. Do not ignore these lights. If they turn on, something is wrong with your vehicle’s electrical system.
Malfunctioning or Slow Accessories
Aside from keeping the battery charged, the alternator is also in charge of providing power to your automobile’s accessories. This includes things such as your navigation system, your entertainment system, the power seats, the power windows, and the USB chargers. If any of these things malfunction or slow down, you need a new alternator.
Strange Noises Coming From the Engine
The alternator may start to make strange noises if it is going bad. For example, it’s not uncommon for an alternator to grind or growl if it is wearing out. The alternator belt can also go bad and make a squealing sound that you hear coming from the engine.
Trouble Starting/Frequent Stalling
One last thing that the alternator is responsible for powering is your vehicle’s spark plugs. If you have had difficulty getting your automobile started, or if the engine stalls frequently or right after you start it, the alternator may not be powering the spark plugs.
Guaranteed Auto Air & Repair in Rockledge, FL, is here to help, so call us today if you think your alternator is going bad. We can test it and install a new one if necessary.
