Serving Cottonwood, AZ & Surrounding Areas including Camp Verde, Clarkdale, Cornville, and Sedona

Mon - Thurs: 8a - 5p | Fri: 8a - 4:30p | Sat - Sun: Closed

SIGNS YOU HAVE A BAD ALTERNATOR

The alternator plays a critical role in converting the energy from the crankshaft into the car’s electrical system. In simple, the alternator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy to power up your car’s systems. Most importantly, it helps recharge your car battery.

However, most alternators fail due to time, mileage, and use. Other issues like leaking fluid may contribute to the premature failure of the car’s alternator system. For instance, water damage to the alternator shaft bearings may occur when you drive through it.

Alternator failure sets a chain of events such as dim or flickering headlights, strange noises from the engine, or other electrical failures.

Even worse, finding a reliable mechanic who can perform alternator repair can be a daunting task.

According to statistics, the average lifespan of an alternator is seven years or about 150,000 miles. The quality of the part and the overall condition of your vehicle also determines its lifespan.

With that in mind, here are some signs of a busted alternator.

DIFFICULTY STARTING YOUR CAR

A failing alternator system can be the reason that your car is not starting. Ideally, a set of warning lights on your dashboard can warn you early of impending failures. As soon as you notice your battery warning light flickering, contact a technician for alternator repair.

FLICKERING HEADLIGHTS

When it comes to driving at night or through the fog, Car headlights help in navigation. The alternator provides the headlights with power, making driving more comfortable and safer at night. Dimming or flickering headlights can be a clear sign that the alternator is struggling, and a pointer that you should have a technician check it out.

DEAD CAR BATTERY

A dead battery comes with a lot of stress, especially when you are far from home or a town. While sometimes batteries fail due to age, they can also do so because of a busted alternator. If so, visit an alternator repair technician.

FAILING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Apart from the dimming headlights, electrical systems powered by the alternator can also start to fail when this component malfunctions. Signs include malfunctioning dashboard lights, AC, power windows, even the car radio.

WE’RE MORE THAN READY TO HELP

It is advisable to consult a professional to replace or repair the alternator when it starts acting up. Moreover, the above signs should act as a wake-up call. Notably, we have adverse knowledge in addressing alternator problems.

For more information on alternators, contact us.

Related Posts

PROPER WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND THE DANGERS OF MISALIGNED DRIVING

Misaligned wheel driving is dangerous to the sustainability of your vehicle, and especially road safety. When your wheel alignment is not in place, it may feel like your car is jerking you to the side or controlling you in some sense, when the driver needs to be in complete control of the car. The problem is that a car’s wheel alignment can be knocked out of whack through daily occurrences that are common and car owners wait for a severe problem to occur before getting their cars examined when wheel alignment checks should be a part of routine maintenance.

WHEN DO I NEED NEW TIRES?

There are numerous indicators to look out for that will cause you to buy new tires for your vehicle. However, attempting to figure out the precise time span for how long your tires last is nearly impossible.

HOW DO I REPAIR BRAKES ON MY CAR?

Your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety feature, which is why it’s critical to keep your brakes in strong working condition—not spongy, not slow, and not squeaky. So, how do you know if you need to replace brakes or any brake system components? The truth is it’s not always obvious… for an obvious reason. Your brakes are designed to wear out gradually, so you have time to take your car in for brake service or a brake repair, before your brakes fail entirely. Read on for more information about car brake repair and what to watch out for when it’s time to replace brakes.