If your headlights are brighter than normal, it’s possible that the alternator is generating too much electricity. Oddly, Texan Auto Repair & Collision advises that when an alternator goes bad, it may try too hard to generate electricity and create excess voltage. This will make your headlights too bright. Normally, the opposite occurs with a bad alternator. Your automobile’s lights will be too dim. Here are other signs that your vehicle’s alternator is going bad.
ALT, GEN, or Battery Light
Your car, truck, or C/SUV likely has a light on the dashboard that is shaped like a battery. If this light or an ALT or GEN turns on, the engine control module is telling you that your vehicle has an electrical problem. The most common reason why these lights turn on is a faulty alternator or battery.
Frequent Engine Stalls
The alternator is responsible for powering many things in your automobile. One of these things is the spark plugs. A malfunctioning alternator may be unable to provide enough power to the spark plugs so they can fire correctly. Unfortunately, the misfiring will cause your engine to stall frequently.
Grinding or Whining Sounds
If you hear grinding sounds coming from the engine, it could be a sign that the alternator is wearing out. Never drive your automobile if you hear grinding sounds. Another indication that the alternator is going bad is whining sounds that come from the belt to which the alternator is attached.
Hard Starts/Dead Battery
The alternator is also in charge of keeping the battery powered. In other words, it recharges the battery as it discharges. If you are finding it harder and harder to get your automobile started, or if your battery is dead, it’s possible that the alternator is no longer able to ensure that the battery stays charged.
Hot Electrical System Odors
As we mentioned above, sometimes the alternator will generate too much electricity when it is malfunctioning. Aside from the overly bright lights, you may also smell burning wires and rubber coming from your engine. This is an indication that your vehicle’s electrical system is overheating.
Malfunctioning Accessories
Finally, the alternator helps to power your vehicle’s accessories. Things may start to slow down or malfunction if the alternator is going bad. For example, your power seats may refuse to adjust.
Call Texan Auto Repair & Collision in Sugar Land, TX, today if your vehicle is experiencing any of the problems listed above. We will test the alternator and replace it if it needs it.
