If your power seats have suddenly slowed down or stopped working, JTR Repair advises that your alternator may be going bad. Any type of accessory malfunction, such as the radio turning off by itself, is an indication that the alternator is not powering the accessory properly. Bring your automobile to our shop so we can test the alternator and replace it if necessary.
Battery Warning Light on the Dash
Another thing that will happen with a faulty alternator is you will get a battery warning light on the dashboard. The light may be in the shape of a battery or spell out GEN or ALT. These dashboard warning lights are designed to turn on if your vehicle is having a problem in the electrical system.
Difficulty Starting Due to a Dead Battery
You may also start to have problems starting your automobile because the battery keeps dying. Aside from powering your accessories, the alternator also keeps the battery charged. If your battery is discharging constantly, it’s possible that the alternator is malfunctioning.
Frequent Misfiring and Stalling
Another sign that you have a malfunctioning alternator under the hood is frequent engine misfiring and stalling. This includes you in to the fact that the spark plugs are not getting the power they need to fire properly in each cylinder. The alternator powers the spark plugs.
Problems With the Vehicle’s Lights
Dim, overly bright, or flickering lights also point to the alternator as the problem. The alternator provides power to all of your vehicle’s lights. Consequently, if the alternator is struggling to produce power or producing too much power, this will affect the lights.
Strange Grinding Noises in the Engine
Listen to your engine if you believe that the alternator is going bad. If you hear strange grinding noises coming from the engine, the alternator could be making these noises. The alternator can growl when its internal mechanisms have worn out and or grinding against each other.
The Smell of Burning Electricity
Finally, an alternator should never produce more than 14.5 volts. If it does, you will smell burning electricity in the engine. The electrical system is getting too hot because there is too much electricity flowing through it. This will overheat the wires and their rubber insulation.
Call JTR Repair in Crawfordsville, IN, today if your automobile is experiencing any of the problems listed above. Again, we will test the alternator and replace it if it is no longer generating electricity.
