Your alternator is one of the most critical parts of your car’s electrical system. It is driven by the engine, generating electricity that keeps your battery charged and powering the car’s electric components.
Like all other parts in your car, your alternator can wear out and start failing. However, if you don’t repair a failing alternator on time, it can leave you stranded on the roadside waiting for a tow truck. The best way to avoid this situation is to recognize the signs your alternator is on its way out before scheduling a car alternator repair service.
The Battery Light is On
When the battery light on your dashboard comes on, it generally means an issue with the alternator, the battery, or the connections between the two. While a depleted, aged, or weak battery is often the primary reason for the battery indicator lighting up, it can also signal a potential alternator problem.
If the battery light comes on while driving, pull over safely. You can check if the problem is with the battery or alternator by trying a jump start. Always follow safety protocols: check that your jumper cables are in good condition, and don’t attempt this if your battery appears damaged.
- Engine runs after jump start, then stops. If the engine starts with a jump but stops shortly after, it often indicates an issue with the alternator. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the vehicle is running. If it fails, the battery won’t charge, and the car can stop running once the jump-started charge is depleted.
- Engine doesn’t start at all after the jump start. If the engine doesn’t start after a jump, the problem could be with either the alternator or the battery. It could also be due to other issues like starter motor problems or electrical system faults.
- Scheduling repairs: If you suspect an issue, schedule an alternator repair as soon as possible. A malfunctioning alternator can lead to a drained battery and leave you stranded.
- Professional diagnosis. While the car’s response after a jump start can provide clues, a proper diagnostic test is necessary to determine whether the problem is with the battery, alternator, or another vehicle component.
Your Car Has Trouble Starting
If your car struggles to start, pay attention to the noises it makes when you turn the key or press the ignition. Repeated clicking suggests that your battery lacks sufficient charge to activate the starter and, consequently, start the engine.
These noises could signal a problem with the alternator, which arises when a deteriorated or malfunctioning alternator fails to provide adequate power to maintain the battery’s charge while driving. However, they can also mean other issues with your electrical system, such as a faulty starter motor.
Scheduling an electrical service can help you determine the cause of your problems and check whether your alternator or another part needs servicing. Trained mechanics can inspect the alternator and the starter motor and check whether they need repairs or a replacement.
Your Car Stalls Frequently While Driving
If alternator problems are making it hard to start your car, you might also experience frequent stalling. However, repeated stalling can stem from various issues, including a faulty ignition system, defective sensors, or clogged air filters.
But if your car not only stalls but struggles to start and makes clicking noises when you turn the key in the ignition, these combined symptoms could point to an issue with the alternator.
The underlying cause is similar; if the alternator is malfunctioning, it may be unable to supply enough power to the battery. This can cause your vehicle to stall even if you did manage to start it earlier.
When your car experiences both regular stalling and starting issues, it’s likely due to a failing alternator. Arrange for car alternator servicing with a mechanic. In the meantime, follow these guidelines until you can get your vehicle checked:
- Avoid straining the car’s electrical system. Turn off or minimize using as many non-essential electrical components as possible, such as the stereo or infotainment system.
- Keep an eye on the dashboard. If your alternator has an issue, your battery light is likely already on. However, the longer you drive with a faulty alternator, the more likely other problems may appear. Pay attention to other indicators, such as the Check Engine light.
- Drive carefully until service day. Frequent stalling can be dangerous, especially when crossing intersections or in heavy traffic. Avoid unnecessary or extended trips, as they can further wear out the alternator and other components.
You Experience Signs of Malfunctioning Electric Components
Besides charging your battery, your alternator supplies power to your car’s electrical system, powering every electric device. Examples include lights, dashboard indicators, power windows, and the infotainment system. If the alternator is worn out or damaged, it may be unable to supply enough power to every component.
Modern vehicles are programmed with a priority list that cuts power to non-essential systems first, such as sound speakers, the sunroof, or seat and wheel warmers. This ensures that any available power goes to more critical components.
Arrange for immediate alternator repair or replacement if it struggles to power critical components of your car, such as:
- Headlights or tail lights are dimmer than usual
- Flickering dashboard indicators
- Dim instrument cluster
- Power steering becomes less responsive
- The electric brake boosters or the ABS no longer work correctly, causing the brake pedal to feel stiff or the braking response to become harsher
- Windshield wipers act erratically or no longer work
Insufficient power to the car’s critical electrical components can wear them out prematurely, increasing repair costs.
Burning Smell Coming From Your Engine Bay
The alternator produces electricity using electromagnetic induction, a process enabled by the drive belt linking the alternator to the engine. When the engine operates, it turns a pulley that spins the drive belt, rotating the alternator’s rotors. As long as the engine runs, this continuous rotation of the rotor inside the alternator facilitates electricity generation.
Drive belts experience continuous friction and tension, leading to wear and tear over time. A worn-out drive belt in your alternator may begin to emit a scent similar to burning rubber.
A burning rubber smell could signal an overworked alternator if the alternator’s drive belt is still in good condition. This means its internal parts are under excessive strain, leading to overheating and potentially burning rubber-like materials, like wire insulation.
Arrange for an alternator repair service if you notice a burning odor from the engine bay. Professional mechanics will diagnose the issue and carry out the required repairs, whether replacing a worn-out drive belt or fixing or replacing the alternator.
You Can Hear Odd Noises in Your Engine Bay
If you hear unusual sounds from the engine bay, it could mean a problem with the alternator. Identifying the specific type and intensity of these noises can assist in pinpointing the nature of the alternator issue and estimating repair costs.
There are generally four types of noises associated with a faulty alternator:
- Whirring and whining. When an alternator begins to fail, it often emits a high-pitched whining or whirring noise. This whine gets louder and more intense as the engine speed increases; the higher the revs, the more noticeable the sound. Whining noises are usually indicative of worn-out bearings in the alternator.
- Growling and grinding. If the engine bay appears to produce an audible growling or metal grinding sound, the bearings inside the alternator may be broken.
- Squealing. A squealing noise often points to an issue with the alternator’s drive belt, which could be misaligned, loose, or nearing the end of its lifespan. A belt that is worn out might produce both a squealing sound and a distinct odor, which can help in identifying the specific problem.
- Rattling. Metallic rattling sounds can indicate various issues, but the alternator is a common suspect. These rattling noises from the alternator are usually due to loose or broken internal parts. It’s advisable to have your alternator checked and possibly repaired or replaced soon, as it may be at a high risk of failure.
Regardless of the specific noises from your engine bay, scheduling a service appointment is the most effective way to diagnose the issue. Skilled mechanics can assist in determining whether the sounds are due to the alternator or other vehicle components.
Let Hometown’s Service Department Inspect Your Alternator
Whether you need routine maintenance, a repair service, or parts replacement, the friendly staff at Hometown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can help. Our qualified parts and service department mechanics are skilled at working on cars and light trucks from a wide range of makes and models.
Do you need car alternator repairs or a replacement? We’ll help you find the right parts and get your car serviced quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a service.