If your car, truck, or utility vehicle is doing any of the things listed below, it’s possible that the alternator has gone bad and needs to be replaced. Tri Valley Auto Repair & Diesel can replace the faulty alternator with a new one to restore your vehicle’s performance and functionality. Let’s talk about the signs that the alternator is going bad below so you know what to look for in your vehicle.
Burning Rubber or Burning Wire Odors
The average voltage an alternator produces is anywhere between 13 volts and 14.5 volts. A problem can occur when a malfunctioning alternator produces more than 14.5 volts. The excess voltage will overload your vehicle’s electrical system, and, as a consequence, you will smell burning rubber and wires coming from the engine. Stop driving your automobile to avoid the chance of an electrical fire.
Dashboard Battery Warning Light
The faulty alternator may also cause the battery light to turn on on your dashboard. If your vehicle is equipped with it, the ALT light might also turn on. There is also a GEN light in some automobiles that will illuminate when the alternator is going bad and sends the main computer chip an error code.
Difficulty Starting the Car/Dead Battery
The alternator is the electrical system part that keeps the battery charged. Consequently, even if you have a new battery, you may have problems starting your automobile or end up with a dead battery because the alternator is not charging the battery.
Lights That Aren’t Working Right
Another sign that the alternator is going bad is problems with your vehicle’s lights. For example, if the alternator is producing too much electricity, the lights will be overly bright. If the alternator is not producing enough electricity, the lights will be dim.
Malfunctioning or Slow Accessories
You may also see your vehicle’s power accessories slow down if the alternator is not producing enough electricity. One example of this is slow power windows. Some of the other accessories, such as your radio or navigation system, may start to malfunction.
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Strange Growling or Whining Engine Noises
Your engine may also start to make growling or whining noises if the alternator is going bad. Specifically, the alternator and alternator belt are making the noises, respectively.
The Engine Suddenly Stalls Frequently
Finally, if your engine has started to stall frequently, the alternator may be unable to provide power to the spark plugs. Unfortunately, this will cause the plugs to misfire and your engine to sputter and stall.
Tri Valley Auto Repair & Diesel in Limon, CO, is here to help, so call us today if your vehicle is having any of the problems listed above.
