If you’re a car owner, you know there are a thousand things that can go wrong with your vehicle. One of the most common issues that can occur is alternator failure. The alternator plays a crucial role in keeping your car running by charging the battery and providing electrical power to the car’s systems. Without a functioning alternator, your car will eventually die on you. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs of alternator failure, what to do if your alternator fails, and how to prevent alternator trouble altogether.
Signs of Alternator Failure
The warning signs of alternator failure may not be immediately obvious, but it’s important to know what to look for and listen to in order to catch it early. Some common warning signs include dimmed headlights, dashboard warning lights flashing on and off, strange noises coming from the engine, and a dead battery. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should take your car to a mechanic right away to have it checked out.
What to Do If Your Alternator Fails
If you are driving and your alternator fails, here’s what you can do. First, turn off all nonessential electrical systems like the radio, air conditioning, and lights. This will give your battery the best chance of making it to a repair shop. Next, pull over as soon as you safely can and turn off the engine. Do not attempt to restart your car as it will likely die again. Finally, call a tow truck to have your car towed to a repair shop. Driving a car with a failed alternator is not advised as it can cause serious damage to the engine and other systems.
Preventing Alternator Trouble
The best way to avoid alternator trouble is to have your car regularly maintained by a reputable mechanic. They can check your alternator and wiring to make sure everything is in good working order. Additionally, you should avoid overloading your car’s electrical system by using multiple devices at once, which can cause the alternator to have to work harder than it should.
Alternator Replacement
If your alternator cannot be repaired, it will need to be replaced. A replacement alternator can cost anywhere from $300 to $800, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. If you are not mechanically inclined, we strongly suggest having a professional mechanic perform the replacement. Replacing an alternator involves removing and replacing many different parts and requires specialized tools to be done correctly.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing any of the warning signs of alternator failure, do not hesitate to get your car to a mechanic. Driving with a failed alternator can cause serious damage to your car, including complete engine failure. By keeping your car properly maintained and avoiding overloading the electrical system, you can greatly reduce the chances of alternator trouble. And, if you do need to replace your alternator, don’t try to do it yourself unless you’re a seasoned mechanic. By taking care of your alternator, you’re taking care of your car and ensuring it will always run smoothly.
