Your car’s alternator is one of the many vital electrical parts in your car, and it is usually ignored until it develops some issues.
This little but significant part is busy ensuring your battery is charged, and all electrical systems in your vehicle are running smoothly.
But when an alternator starts to go bad, it contributes to other issues which compromise your car’s performance as well as dependence.
In this article, we will look at some common signs of alternator failure, including dead battery, frequent stalling, dim lights, dashboard warning signs, and much more.
Understanding the Importance of a Properly Functioning Alternator
The alternator is used to maintain the battery charge and to supply power to the electrical system of the car when the car engine is on.
It transforms mechanical energy from the engine to electrical energy, which serves as power for the various parts like headlights, radio, air conditioning, among others.
If your alternator is not working correctly, your car battery will drain quickly, leaving your car immobile.
So the alternator is a crucial part of your vehicle as it helps in the overall health of the battery. It supplies electrical energy continuously to charge the battery and keep it ready to start the engine of the car.
Further, it supplies power to all the electrical components in the car so that they may effectively work. It may be used to power the ignition system, to maintain the intensity of the lights or even to charge the battery.
Why You Should Not Ignore Problems with the Alternator
If you have a problem with the alternator then it is advisable not to ignore it as it may cause other related problems that can affect the performance of your vehicle and its reliability.
When the alternator starts to fail, it cannot generate enough electricity to maintain the charging of the battery or power the electrical systems.
This can lead to a number of effects including; The lights go out, electrical system failure, and even the engine may fail to run.
The first sign of a faulty alternator is a dead battery, which is among the most significant dangers you are likely to encounter. That’s why your car should get regular electrical system services is essential.
Dim or Flickering Headlights
This is one of the first and most evident symptoms of an alternator issue; the headlights will be not as bright as before or will flicker.
If you have observed that the headlights are not as bright as they were before or if the headlights are blinking while you are operating the vehicle, this is an indication that the alternator is not delivering adequate power.
The alternator is the part which supplies electric current to the headlights and therefore any variation in the performance of the alternator will be seen on the brightness of the headlights.
Battery Warning Light
The moment the battery warning light appears on your dashboard, you are likely to think that it is the battery that is problematic. However, this light can also show that there is an issue with the alternator of the vehicle.
The battery light illuminates when the car’s computer discerns a problem with the electrical system, and the alternator is part of that system, making it a possible suspect.
It would be a good idea to get the car to a technician as soon as possible if this light is on.
Electrical Issues
The alternator charges the electrical systems of your car, such as the radio, power windows, dashboard lights, and air conditioning system, if you begin to observe that these systems are becoming dysfunctional.
For instance, if the radio loses reception, the windows do not roll up or down as expected, or the dashboard lights are not bright – then it means that your alternator is failing.
Situations such as electrical problems show that the alternator is no longer charging as it is supposed to.
Strange Noises
An unusual sound emanating from a car is rather concerning and such sound is usually a sign of a looming problem.
A bad alternator can generate several different sounds, and they are all critical that you pay attention to. There might be whining or grinding noise coming from the engine of the car.
This may be caused by a worn bearing in the alternator or a problem with the belt that turns the component.
Why You Should Not Ignore Alternator Issues
Avoiding Unexpected Breakdowns
An alternator that is not working well can leave you stranded if your car breaks or won’t start. It is always wise to fix the problem as soon as possible in order to avoid such an experience where one has to be stranded on the road.
Preventing Chain-Reaction Damage
If you decide to keep on driving with a bad alternator, you will be damaging other components in your car, including the battery. Due to this, it can lead to more severe damages that are costly to repair than if they had been detected early and fixed.
Keeping You Safe on the Road
Some of the systems that are charged by the alternator are very vital for the operation of the vehicle.
Starting the vehicle requires an alternator, and other components such as headlights, windshield wipers, and power steering also depend on the alternator.
If you neglect the alternator, it will lead to lots of trouble for your car and endanger your life on the road.
Saving Money in the Long Run
Replacing or fixing an alternator may not be cheap, but the cost is still lower than the numerous repairs that may be required if the problem is not addressed.
It is always important to deal with the problems of an alternator at an early stage because they can lead to severe problems.
A Cautionary Tale
Jake, a busy professional, relied heavily on his car. One evening, he noticed his headlights flickering but dismissed it as a minor issue.
A week later, the battery warning light appeared on his dashboard. Again, Jake ignored it, thinking it was just a glitch.
Weeks passed, and Jake experienced more issues: his radio cut out, power windows were sluggish, and a faint whining noise came from the engine.
He kept postponing a visit to the mechanic, telling himself he’d address it “tomorrow.”
One cold winter morning, Jake’s car wouldn’t start. After a jump start, it died again a few miles down the road.
Stranded, Jake had his car towed to Erics Car Care, where he learned his alternator had failed, damaging the battery and other electrical systems.
The repair costs were steep, requiring a new alternator, battery, and additional fixes.
Don’t make the same mistake; address warning signs promptly to keep your car running smoothly and avoid unnecessary stress and costs.
What do you do if you think your vehicle is developing alternator issues?
When it comes to diagnosing the actual problem with your car, it is best to bring your car to Erics Car Care.
They can conduct diagnostic procedures to determine whether the alternator is causing the issues and advise on further actions.
If the alternator is found to be faulty, it will require repair or replacement before it can function correctly. You can also contact us for that at 713-352-8058.
The cost of alternator replacement varies by car type, but it is a worthwhile expense if you want to maintain your car’s good working condition.
