The working of an alternator is vital to the proper functioning of a car. The engine’s crankshaft rotates a pulley that in turn drives the belt connected to the alternator. As the engine RPM increases, so does the alternator speed. This increased speed causes more electricity to be produced by the alternator.
The electricity produced by the alternator is used to recharge the battery and power all of the car’s electrical systems, including the headlights, taillights, and interior lights. A failing alternator can cause all sorts of problems for a car, including dimming lights, stalling engine, and eventually a dead battery. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time for some alternator repair.
How to Tell if You Need Alternator Repair?
There are several symptoms that can indicate your alternator is going bad and needs to be repaired or replaced. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to bring your car in for service:
- Dimming headlights: This is one of the most common signs of a failing alternator. As the alternator starts to fail, it won’t be able to produce enough electricity to power all of the car’s electrical systems, including the headlights. If you notice your headlights getting dimmer, it’s time for a checkup.
- Stalling engine: A failing alternator can also cause your engine to stall. This is because, without a working alternator, there’s not enough power to keep all of the car’s systems running, including the engine. If your car suddenly stalls, get it towed to a mechanic as soon as possible.
- Dead battery: Without a working alternator, eventually, your battery will run out of juice and die completely. If you turn your key and nothing happens, it’s likely due to a dead battery caused by a failing alternator.
Alternator Repair vs. Replacement?
Once you’ve determined that you need some sort of repair or replacement, you’ll need to decide whether you want to repair or replace your alternator completely. In general, if your alternator is relatively new (less than 5 years old) and isn’t showing any other signs of wear and tear, repair is usually the way to go. However, if your alternator is older or starting to show other signs of wear and tear, replacement might be a better option since it will likely need to be replaced soon anyway.
At the end of the day, it’s important to consult with a qualified mechanic who can inspect your car and give you their professional opinion on what needs to be done.
An issue with your alternator can cause serious problems for your car, including dimming lights, stalling engine, and eventually a dead battery. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, bring your car in for service as soon as possible so we can take a look at it!