A car’s alternator is an electrical component in the vehicle’s engine bay that provides power to the battery and keeps it charged, ensuring that your car will start each time you turn the ignition key. An alternator’s failure can lead to a dead battery–which means you won’t be able to drive your car until you get this component replaced. If you are dealing with this problem, here’s what you should do first to get back on the road quickly.
What Does the Alternator do?
Your car’s alternator is a critical component of the vehicle’s electrical system. The alternator’s job is to charge the battery while the car’s engine is running. It’s helpful to think of the alternator as a generator for your car’s battery. The alternator must constantly charge your car’s battery while the engine is running to power your vehicle’s electrical components. A bad alternator will drain your battery and, eventually, cause your vehicle to stall. Therefore, it is vital to address a bad alternator as soon as possible to avoid being stranded.
Is my Car’s Alternator Bad?
Determining if the alternator is near failure can be a difficult task that usually has to be determined by a professional. The symptoms of a bad alternator will be similar to that of a bad battery, so it can be difficult for the average car owner to know the difference. Dim lights, dashboard warning lights, and slow functioning electrical components like power seats and windows may indicate that your vehicle’s electrical system is malfunctioning. In addition, you may hear a grinding sound if the alternator is failing, but this is not that common.
What to do About a Bad Alternator (or Battery)
If your car’s alternator is bad, the battery won’t keep its charge. Therefore, your first step should be to determine if your car’s battery is bad. Car batteries are expected to last between 3 and 5 years and are more likely to fail than the car’s alternator. Your auto car professional can check the battery quickly to determine if it needs to be replaced. If your battery is between 3 and 5 years old, the battery likely needs to be replaced. However, if your battery is still good, you will need to replace the alternator. This is a job that your auto care specialist routinely handles.
If your car has electrical problems, the cause could be your vehicle’s alternator. If you notice any electrical issues, such as warning or dim lights, get your vehicle checked by your auto care professional ASAP. Keep in mind that once your car’s battery has been drained, it will not run, so don’t ignore any battery or alternator trouble signs.
