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How to Tell if You Need Alternator Repair

An alternator is a part of your car’s electrical system that powers the battery and provides juice to the electric components while the engine is running. The alternator is belt-driven and is usually located on the front of the engine. If your alternator starts to fail, it will affect your car’s battery, lights, and other electrical components. Here are four signs that you might need alternator repair.

1. Your dashboard lights are dimming or flickering.

If your alternator is going bad, one of the first things you’ll notice is that your dashboard lights are dimming or flickering. This happens because the alternator is not providing enough power to keep the battery fully charged. If you notice this problem, take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible so they can test the alternator and make any necessary repairs.

2. Your car stalls or has trouble starting.

Another sign of a failing alternator is if your car stalls or has trouble starting. This happens because the battery does not have enough power to start the engine. If you notice this problem, take your car to a mechanic for repairs as soon as possible.

3. Your battery dies quickly.

One way to tell if your alternator is going bad is if you notice that your battery dies quickly. This happens because the alternator is not keeping the battery charged properly. If you notice this problem, take your car to a mechanic so they can test the alternator and make any necessary repairs.

4. You hear strange noises coming from under the hood.

If you start hearing strange noises coming from under the hood, it could be a sign that your alternator is going bad. These noises are usually caused by bearings in the alternator wearing down and grinding against each other. If you notice this problem, take your car to a mechanic for repairs as soon as possible.

If you notice any of these four signs, it’s time to take your car in for alternator repair. A failing alternator can cause major problems for your car, so it’s important to get it repaired as soon as possible.

Photo by ampols from Getty Images via Canva Pro

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