Signs of Car Alternator Trouble
Posted on: 28 April 2020
Traditional car assembly focused on making cars that heavily relied on mechanics and hydraulics to operate. But since the introduction of a battery-run electrical starter, modern car makers have found ways of incorporating more electrical components and systems into cars.
An alternator is one of the three main electrical components found in modern cars. Its job is to charge a car's entire electrical system to ensure the vehicle produces enough power to match its electrical load.
Due to its integral role in the auto electrical system, alternator problems seldom go unnoticed. This is a good thing for the average car owner because they'll know when their car requires alternator repair.
Take a look at some car electrical issues that indicate your alternator could be faulty.
Poor Light Operation
Regardless of the speed at which you're travelling, a normally functioning alternator will keep the headlights bright and steady. If your headlights become brighter and dimmer as you increase or decrease engine speed, this is a sign of a failing alternator.
Flickering lights are usually an indication that the alternator isn't producing enough charge to keep the lights powered up. In some cases, the problem can cause headlight bulbs to get burned out prematurely, leading to frequent bulb replacements.
A Dead or Dying Battery
A car battery isn't meant to be drained all the way down and that's why alternators exist — to replenish the battery before it completely runs out of charge. If an otherwise perfectly healthy battery ends up dead, it's likely that the alternator isn't doing its job of charging the battery.
A bad battery can also ruin a good alternator, so it's important to check both components to determine the real culprit.
Dashboard Warning Light Comes On
If you drive a modern car, it has several dashboard warning lights to alert you when something is wrong with the vehicle. One of these lights is the alternator warning light, which alerts you when your alternator is going haywire.
If this light turns on when you're driving, you should take your car to a mechanic shop to have the alternator checked and repaired.
The secret to maximising the performance and lifespan of your alternator is to have your car's entire electrical system checked periodically. If you notice signs of an ailing alternator, your trusted auto electrician can get it back working at its peak again. A new alternator can also be installed, if necessary. Contact a company that handles auto electrical repairs to learn more.
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