While your vehicle is running, the alternator works as a generator. As the battery discharges, the alternator recharges it so it doesn’t die. It also powers your vehicle’s electrical system and, thereby, the accessories and components. Euro Autoworks lists seven signs that your European automobile’s alternator is going bad. If it is, it will need to be replaced.
1. Flickering Lights
If the alternator is struggling to reduce power, you may notice that your lights go dim and then brighten up again. They may flicker, and, as the alternator continues to lose power, will go dim and stay dim. The reason your lights are flickering is that the alternator is sending inconsistent voltage to them.
2. Battery Trouble
An obvious sign of alternator trouble is a dead battery. You may be able to get the battery started with a jumpstart, but if it does not retain the charge, the problem could be with the alternator instead of the battery. The alternator is not keeping the battery charged as it is supposed to.
3. Accessory Malfunction
As we mentioned above, the alternator powers your vehicle’s accessories. You may notice problems with things such as your power windows, your touchscreen controls, and even your radio. If the operation of these things slows down or ceases altogether, you might have a bad alternator.
4. Hard Starts
Before your battery dies completely, as discussed above, you may find it more difficult to start your European automobile if the alternator is going bad. You may also end up with a vehicle that stalls frequently because the alternator cannot power the spark plugs as it needs to.
5. Whining Sounds
The alternator uses a belt and pulley to generate power. If the belt is loose or the pulley is failing, you may hear whining sounds coming from underneath your hood. Sometimes, the alternator will also make growling noises if the internal mechanisms are wearing down.
6. Burning Rubber Odor
If the alternator is wearing out, it’s possible that it will overheat and you’ll smell burning rubber. The drive belt can also overheat and emit this odor. If there is a problem with one of the electrical wires connected to the alternator, you might smell the odor of hot electricity or burning wires.
7. Dashboard Warning
Finally, your European automobile has a dashboard warning light that is associated with the alternator. This is the ALT or GEN light. If you do not have that light, your battery light will come on if the alternator is experiencing trouble. This is a light that is shaped like a car battery.
Euro Autoworks is the best European auto shop in Woodbury MN, and we’d be happy to test your alternator if you suspect it is going bad. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.