My Car Is Hard to Start and the Lights Are Dim
Did you know that your car’s alternator generates between 13 and 14.5 volts? If your car is difficult to start in if the lights are dim, it’s possible that the alternator is going bad and unable to generate this much voltage. When the alternator goes bad, your battery goes bad, so bring your automobile to Total Auto Care for an alternator and battery test if you notice any of the symptoms listed below. We can determine the part at fault and replace it.
A Dead Battery/Hard Starts
The reason why the alternator affects the battery is that it charges it. The battery discharges naturally, and the alternator recharges the battery well your vehicle is running. If your vehicle is getting difficult to start or you have a dead battery that dries quickly after a jump-start, the alternator is probably going bad.
ALT/GEN/Battery Light
Your dashboard may give you an indication of the problem. It will illuminate one of the three lights listed in the subhead. Most cars today have a battery-shaped light, but you may also have an ALT or GEN light. If any of these illuminates, your alternator is trying to tell you something.
Burning Rubber/Wires
If you smell burning rubber or wires, you likely have a problem with the alternator belt or the alternator, respectively. If the alternator belt is too loose, it will smell like burning rubber. If the alternator is dying and overloading your vehicle’s electrical system, you will smell burning wires.
Growling/Whining Sounds
Growling and whining sound also point to the alternator and the alternator belt, respectively. If you hear growling coming from your engine, this is a sign that the alternator’s internal mechanisms are grinding against each other. Whining sounds are another indication that the alternator belt is too loose.
Lights That Are Dim
As we mentioned above, a surefire sign that the alternator is going bad is dim headlights, taillights, and interior lights. If it’s difficult to start your car and the lights are bright, this points to the starter. Otherwise, dim lights indicate a problem with the alternator or battery.
Malfunctioning Accessories
The alternator also powers your vehicle’s power accessories. This includes your entertainment and navigation systems, power seats, and power windows. If any of these accessories slow down or malfunction, you likely have a problem with the alternator.
Stalling Frequently
Finally, the alternator also supplies power to your vehicle’s spark plugs. If your vehicle stalls frequently, especially right after you started, it’s possible that the alternator is not providing enough power to the spark plugs for them to sustain engine combustion.Total Auto Care in North Branch, MN, can help, so call us today.