Alternator Failure: 7 Common Symptoms

Your alternator juices up your car battery. If it fails, then you could end up stalled out and needing assistance to get back on the road. Here's a look at seven common signs that your alternator is failing.

Dashboard Indicator

A dashboard indicator light that reads ALT or GEN is often the first sign that there's a problem with your alternator. In some vehicles, this light illuminates in the shape of a small battery.

Dead Battery

While it's normal for a battery to die at the end of its expected lifespan, if you've recently installed a new one and it has died, then your alternator could be the culprit---unless of course you left your headlights on!

Problems with Electrical Accessories

If your alternator is faulty, then you may notice issues with electrical accessories such as your radio, power locks, power seats, and power windows.

Dimming/Flickering Headlights

A failing alternator can cause headlights to act erratically. This can pose a serious safety concern, especially if you regularly drive on roads that are not illuminated by streetlights.

Belt Trouble

If you get under your hood and can see that a belt is too tight, too loose, or is cracked, then you may have found the source of your alternator trouble.

Stalling

A healthy alternator plays an important role in keeping your pistons pumping dependably as you go about your daily driving routine. A failing alternator can cause your car to stall out, potentially putting you in a difficult situation.

Burning Smell

A number of automotive problems can cause a burning odor, with one possibility being alternator belt slippage.

If you need auto repair, be sure to bring your vehicle to a reputable mechanic. For alternator replacement and electrical system repair in Austin, TX, contact the experts at Precision Tune Auto Care at (512) 580-4826. Feel free to give Precision Tune Auto Care a call today to schedule an appointment for any of your vehicle's repair or maintenance needs!

Precision Tune Auto Care Blog
Posted: August 04, 2020

Written and Published By MORBiZ