What Does The Alternator Do?
An alternator is a device, named for alternating current, that ensures all the electric components in your vehicle function properly. Lights, accessories, radios, computers, many engine components and more rely on electricity to work. Though power comes from the battery to an extent, without the alternator to keep the battery charged, your battery could not provide enough power for any length of time.
How Do I Know If My Alternator Isn’t Working?
If your alternator is damaged, wearing out, or going bad in any other way, there are some clues that will help you realize that you may have an issue:
- Dashboard warning light: This may be an actual alternator light, check engine light, service engine light, or it could be a battery light.
- Weak lights or dimming lights, very noticeable at night: If there is a problem with the alternator, your lights may be dim, but if you increase RPMs the light will get brighter.
- Other electrical problems: Systems or accessories may not be getting enough power since the alternator generates power for electrical systems.
- Odd noises: If there is a problem with your alternator’s belt or pulley, it may produce a squealing sound, and if it is a problem with internal bearings, it may make a grinding or growling noise.
- Burning odors: This can also indicate a problem with the alternator’s belt or pulley.
- Battery is healthy, but not keeping a charge: If you have your “dead” battery tested with a voltmeter and it shows that your battery is healthy, your problem may be resulting from a failing alternator that is not recharging the battery properly.
Starter System Problems
The alternator is only one part of the starter system. Other issues that can cause your vehicle to not start may be starter or battery related, caused by faulty spark plugs, fuses, or other components. If you are having problems getting your vehicle to start, bring it into Premier Volkswagen of Harvey for an inspection and diagnostic test. Let our technicians discover why your vehicle is malfunctioning. They will provide an estimate and will advise you how to proceed to get your vehicle up and running.
