One of the problems of driving a car is that we usually overdo it commuting from work to home. We often neglect warning signs to invest in a new alternator. Here are some signs that you need to get a new alternator.
Weird Car Noises
Everything from your wheels, engine, and blinkers has a distinctive sound. Even if you decide to get custom alternators for your vehicle, you still should monitor them for any awkward noises.
Grinding or whining noises usually come from the alternator when it’s starting to wear down. Maybe the voltage regulator is signaling the alternator to overcharge it. Another issue is sending enough electricity from the alternator to the car battery.
Not only do you need to look at the alternator, but look at the car battery to ensure things are sound.
Difficulty Starting
It’s one of the more obvious things you’ll notice right away. If you’re putting your key into the ignition and it’s having trouble starting up, it might be the alternator. The alternator may be suffering wear down, and you need to get this checked immediately.
The problem may lie in the voltage regulator malfunctioning or the brushes in the motor aren’t reaching the rotor. When the brushes can’t touch the rotor, it means that not enough electrical current is getting to your vehicle.
Dimmed Accessory Lights
Take a look at your dash lights and headlights. If you notice they’re getting dim, then the alternator may have trouble powering these accessories up. Another indicator is your sound output. If the stereo system sounds muted, then it’s likely that your alternator goes as well.
Stereos put out a certain level of watts, which alternators manage through a specific type of amp power. Alternators can start failing over time because they don’t have enough juice to handle the load.
Smelling Burnt-Rubber
An alternator belt has to rotate on the pulleys. If you’ve had your alternator in for over 60,000 miles, it may cause friction and overheat the belt. At this point, the belt isn’t freely rotating on the pulleys.
The burnt-rubber smell comes from the excess heat.
Also, make sure to check the battery. If the alternator doesn’t have enough power for your car, you need to get it fixed ASAP. Jump starting it too much can destroy the battery and cause worse problems down the road.
Get a new alternator to help you keep your car intact.
