The alternator generates power. It creates voltage for your vehicle’s electrical system. It lasts anywhere from seven to 10 years on average. Premier Auto Repair advises that a dying alternator can create several problems for your automobile. We are going to list these problems below.
Faulty Accessories
One of the things that the alternator does is power your vehicle’s accessories that require power. This includes the windows and seats, the entertainment system, the USB charging ports, and the navigation system among other things. If any of these things are malfunctioning, the alternator could be going bad.
Frequent Stalling
The alternator also provides power to the spark plugs so they can generate sparks in the combustion chamber. If the alternator is malfunctioning, your engine may misfire and stall because the spark plugs are unable to generate the sparks in the proper order.
Growling Noises
If you hear growling noises coming from the engine, it’s possible that the alternator is creating these unpleasant sounds. As the alternator goes bad, its internal mechanisms may grind against each other. This can directly affect how much voltage the alternator can produce.
Hard Starts/Dead Battery
If the alternator isn’t producing enough voltage, you may find it difficult to start your automobile. The alternator keeps the battery charged, and if it is malfunctioning, your battery may drain completely and go dead. An inability to start your car could actually be attributed to the alternator rather than the battery.
Headlamp Problems
Poor voltage will also reduce the brightness of your headlamps and the rest of your vehicle’s lights. In some cases, when the alternator starts to malfunction, it will actually overwork itself and produce too much energy. When this happens, your headlamps will be abnormally bright.
Hot Wire Odors
Another way to tell that the alternator is working too hard is if you smell hot electrical wiring in the engine. As the alternator overheats the electrical system, the wires will start to smell. You may also smell burning wire insulation, which smells like burning rubber.
Dashboard Warning
Finally, all of the above might be accompanied by a dashboard warning light. In the case of the alternator, the light could be the battery light, or an ALT or GEN light.
Premier Auto Repair is the best auto service shop in Tyler, TX, so call us today to schedule a service appointment if you have noticed any of the problems listed above. If you drive an older automobile, it’s possible that your alternator needs to be replaced.
