6 Signs of Alternator Not Working
Have you ever jumped in the car, prepared to start the day, turn the key in the ignition and nothing happens? This is a stressful scenario and one that leaves you wondering what is the problem with your car. There are a few tell-tale signs that will give you an indication of whether the problem is with the starter, the battery, or the alternator.
- If hear a faint click when turning the key and no other response, the car starter is probably bad.
- If the lights and other accessories in your car are completely dead, then the battery is most likely the issue.
- If your vehicle starts, but only after a struggle, it may be that your alternator is failing.
So what is the purpose of the alternator? The alternator is a key component in your car's electrical system. It turns the energy from the crankshaft into electricity to power the vehicle's electrical system and to keep the battery charged. When the alternator starts to fail, it can create a domino effect of electrical problems that can ultimately cause a breakdown. What are the signs of the alternator not working?
- The indicator light in the dashboard "ALT" or "GEN" illuminates.
- Headlights are dim or flickering.
- Other electrical failures, including power windows, power locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, or the car radio.
- Strange noises, such as bearings to fail in the engine, creating unusual rattles.
- Car stalls or has difficulty starting. There might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive.
- Battery dies – The battery will drain if the alternator cannot keep it charged.
Tip to Remember: Pay attention to the sounds and actions of your vehicle when turning the key. This will help your mechanic pinpoint whether there are problems with the car starter, the battery, or the alternator.
Wondering what are the signs of the alternator not working? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about starting problems and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
Have you ever jumped in the car, prepared to start the day, turn the key in the ignition and nothing happens? This is a stressful scenario and one that leaves you wondering what is the problem with your car. There are a few tell-tale signs that will give you an indication of whether the problem is with the starter, the battery, or the alternator.
- If hear a faint click when turning the key and no other response, the car starter is probably bad.
- If the lights and other accessories in your car are completely dead, then the battery is most likely the issue.
- If your vehicle starts, but only after a struggle, it may be that your alternator is failing.
So what is the purpose of the alternator? The alternator is a key component in your car's electrical system. It turns the energy from the crankshaft into electricity to power the vehicle's electrical system and to keep the battery charged. When the alternator starts to fail, it can create a domino effect of electrical problems that can ultimately cause a breakdown. What are the signs of the alternator not working?
- The indicator light in the dashboard "ALT" or "GEN" illuminates.
- Headlights are dim or flickering.
- Other electrical failures, including power windows, power locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, or the car radio.
- Strange noises, such as bearings to fail in the engine, creating unusual rattles.
- Car stalls or has difficulty starting. There might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive.
- Battery dies – The battery will drain if the alternator cannot keep it charged.
Tip to Remember: Pay attention to the sounds and actions of your vehicle when turning the key. This will help your mechanic pinpoint whether there are problems with the car starter, the battery, or the alternator.
Wondering what are the signs of the alternator not working? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about starting problems and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
