Signs of a Faulty Alternator

While your vehicle is made up of many important components, the alternator is one of those components that helps your car function properly. It’s responsible for keeping your battery charged and supplying power to your car’s electrical system. While your vehicle may run on the battery alone, without the alternator, it would eventually lose its charge altogether. Replacing an alternator can be pricey, but they can last, on average, 8 to 12 years. The professional team at Best Auto of Longmont can properly diagnose and make any necessary repairs if you feel your alternator is failing.

 

How to Recognize a Failing Alternator:

• Having a Difficult Time Starting Car: Often the battery can be the problem if the car doesn’t want to start. Have the battery tested. If the battery isn’t the problem, chances are it’s the alternator. Another indication is the car dies or won’t stay started.
• The Indicator Light: Most vehicles have a light on the dashboard that resembles a battery. While this icon will light up when starting the vehicle, it should disappear. If the light stays on, it could suggest that your alternator is failing.
• Bad Smells or Sounds: When an alternator starts to fail, you may notice a smell resembling burning rubber. A faulty alternator can also make growling or whining sounds. If you are having these issues, it’s a good idea to have your alternator diagnosed by a licensed auto mechanic.
• Weak or Dead Battery: If the battery is weak, or won’t stay charged, this could indicate a failing alternator since it supplies power to the battery. Again, having the battery tested will help determine the problem.
• Flickering or Dimming Lights: If you notice the headlights, dashboard lights, or interior lights becoming dim, or flickering, this could be a common sign of a faulty alternator.

 

If your vehicle is having any of these symptoms, call Best Auto of Longmont. Their trusted team of ASE certified mechanics will properly diagnose your alternator and make the repairs needed so that your vehicle is back on the road in no time.