Your car’s alternator is a key component of the electrical system, taking energy from the crankshaft and converting it into electricity that is then stored in the battery. When you’re driving, the alternator keeps the battery charged and helps to power the car’s various electrical systems.
When the alternator starts to fail, there are a number of warning signs that you should be aware of. Here are four signs that tell you it might be time to replace your car’s alternator. 
- Warning Light
On most modern cars, a warning light shaped like a battery might come on when the alternator is failing. Older cars may have a light that says ALT (alternator) or GEN (generator), but they mean the same thing.
The light might only come on if you are using several electrical components. For example, you’re driving with the headlights on and there is no warning light. When you switch on the wipers, the warning light comes on but goes out when you turn off the wipers. The warning light is telling you that the voltage output of the alternator drops when it has to work harder to run more electrical systems.
- Dim or Flickering Lights
A failing alternator can cause erratic symptoms in your car’s electrical components as it struggles to keep things running. A common symptom is when the headlights go dim and bright as you turn other components on and off. Dash lights can also work erratically and the speedometer and tachometer can stop working.
Many new cars are able to prioritize which components get power when there is an alternator problem. The radio and heated seats might stop working in order to provide enough power for the lights and safety systems.
- Dead Battery
Your car’s battery has a finite life, but it should last for four to six years depending on the amount of driving you do. If your battery suddenly dies within its expected life span, it could be the alternator that is faulty. Starting your car takes a lot of juice from the battery. If the alternator is not replenishing the battery’s charge, it will die pretty quickly.
To determine if the problem is with the battery or the alternator, jump start the car and let it run for a while. If the lights go dim or flicker or the instruments aren’t working, it’s likely to be the alternator that’s at fault. Your local auto service department can also test the battery and alternator voltage.
- Odd Sounds and Smells
The alternator works with a series of belts, so the smell of burning rubber could be a sign of friction caused by a loose or worn belt. The alternator also has several moving parts that, if damaged, can cause odd noises. Worn-out bearings, for example, can cause a whining or grinding noise.
Alternators often fail during the winter, when you need to use lights, wipers, and heating far more than usual. If you think your car’s alternator is failing, visit the service department at Atlantic Toyota to have it checked.
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