Your vehicle’s alternator is a little powerhouse that helps keep the battery charged and the accessories working. The average lifespan of an alternator is seven years or 100,000 miles. Some alternators can last as long as 150,000 miles. If you’ve never had your alternator replaced and you’ve reached one of these milestones, Willoughby Hills Auto Repair recommends you keep an eye out for the following signs a dying alternator.
Light Problems
Although subtle at first, the most obvious sign that the alternator is not powering the battery is dim and flickering lights. You’ll notice problems with all of your lights, including the dashboard and interior lights. If you can’t see as well at night as you use to be able to, your alternator could be going bad.
Battery Trouble
Another sign of alternator trouble is a dead battery. This is particularly true if your battery is new but your alternator is old. As your battery discharges while your vehicle is running, the alternator recycles that power back into the battery to keep it charged. If the alternator is failing, your battery will run out of juice and die.
Accessory Power Loss
You may also notice a problem with your vehicle’s accessories. If they aren’t getting enough power, such as the power windows, you’ll see performance issues. In some cases, people have reported the radio turning off by itself or an inability to adjust their power seats.
Clicking Sounds at Startup
If you hear clicking sounds when you’re trying to start your car, this is a sign that the alternator is going bad. You may be able to get your car started, but it is recommended you head straight to an auto service shop. Just because you were able to start the car this time doesn’t mean you’ll be able to do so again.
Whining Sounds
Another sound the alternator makes when it’s going bad is whining sounds. The alternator is attached to your vehicle’s serpentine belt, and if this belt is having problems, it might squeal or whine. You may also hear whining or grinding sounds coming from the alternator’s motor if the parts are wearing out.
Burning Smells
The more the parts wear out the more damage is done, and this may result in burning smells coming from your engine. If the belt is loose or the motor is overheating, you will smell burning rubber or you might smell hot electricity. It’s important to pull over right away to avoid the danger of fire.
Dashboard Warning Light
Finally, if your alternator is going bad, your vehicle’s engine control unit will turn on either the battery light or, if your car is equipped with it, the GEN or ALT light. This lets you know there is a problem with the alternator that needs your attention right away.
We can help here at Willoughby Hills Auto Repair in Willoughby Hills, OH, so give us a call today to get your vehicle’s alternator troubles fixed.