7 Symptoms of an Alternator Issue

Your vehicle's alternator charges up its battery. If the alternator fails, your battery's power reserve could become depleted to the extent that you end up stranded. At the first indication of an alternator problem, you'll want to be proactive about addressing it. Here's a look at seven signs of alternator failure.

Dead Battery

A car battery should typically last for about three years. If it dies much sooner than this timeframe, then alternator trouble could be to blame---unless you left your headlights on!

Dashboard Indication

When your vehicle first detects an alternator issue, it could set off a dash light that reads ALT or GEN. In some vehicles, this light will turn on in the shape of a small battery.

Issues with Electrical Accessories

A faulty alternator can cause problems with electrical accessories including your power seats, power locks, power windows, and radio.

Dimming/Flickering Headlights

It's your alternator that juices up your headlights. If it fails, then your headlights may start to malfunction, which can pose a significant safety hazard. This is particularly troublesome if you have to drive on roads that aren't lit up by street lamps.

Belt Issues

If you pop your hood and see that a belt is too tight, too loose, or cracked, then you may have spotted the cause of your alternator trouble.

Stalling Out

To keep your vehicle cruising along dependably, you need a healthy alternator. If your alternator malfunctions, you could find yourself stalled out and in need of assistance.

Burning Odor

Among the car problems that can cause a burning smell, one potential source of the odor is a slipping alternator belt.

If you need auto repair, be sure to bring your vehicle to a reputable mechanic. For alternator replacement and electrical system repair in Covina, San Dimas, Pomona, El Monte, Azusa, and Baldwin Park, CA, contact the experts at Hye-Tech Auto at (626) 332-5452. Feel free to give Hye-Tech Auto a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your vehicle's repair or maintenance needs!

Hye Tech Auto Blog
Posted: October 1, 2020

Written & Published By MORBiZ