3 Signs Your Cadillacs Alternator Needs Service

The alternator is a small electrical generator in your Cadillac that produces electricity when your engine is running. This electricity powers all of your cart’s systems and devices. The alternator can become worn or damaged as time passes and needs repair or replacement. As your Cadillac dealer, we’d like you to know some signs that you need to visit us for an alternator service.

3 Signs You Need an Alternator Service at Your Cadillac Dealer

Belt Tensioner Problem

The alternator belt powers the alternator. This belt connects to the crankshaft. The crankshaft turns as you drive, and this causes the alternator belt to run across a series of pulleys. The belt’s movement causes the pulleys to spin and power the alternator, power steering pump, and other devices. The belt is maintained at the correct tension by the belt tensioner, which adjusts the as required to keep it moving steadily.

In time, the tensioner can wear out and the belt will pull too tight or loosen. A belt that’s too tight suffers increased friction as it moves across the pulleys, and you’ll smell burning rubber. If the belt is too loose, the alternator will work less efficiently and this reduces its electricity production. We’ll examine the tensioner and correct its tension or replace it if it’s failed.

Illuminated Battery Light

The battery light illuminates in response to any detected issue in the electrical system. Sensors are connected to the alternator, battery, and other electrical system components, and these sensors monitor their attached components for any signs of trouble. They’re very sensitive, and the sensors can identify tiny issues when they first appear.

If something goes wrong, the relevant sensor will inform your computer, and the computer will illuminate the warning light. Visit our service department, and our technicians will investigate. We’ll connect your computer to our diagnostic system to determine the cause of the problem recorded by the computer. Once the issue has been pinpointed, we’ll fix it.

Failed Rectifier

The alternator produces electricity using a complex process that involves several conversions. As the alternator spins, it generates magnetic energy. This energy is captured by the stator and converted into AC. The AC is then converted into DC by the rectifier and supplied to your Cadillac’s systems and devices.

A damaged rectifier prevents the conversion of AC to DC, and this will cause your Cadillac’s electrical system to shut down. The battery will take over supplying electricity, but it has very limited storage capacity and will usually drain completely within one hour. We can quickly replace a failed rectifier, and the electrical system will work normally again.

If you suspect you have an alternator problem, contact us today at Service Cadillac in Lafayette, LA.

Tags: alternator, alternator repair, cadillac alternator, cadillac alternator repair
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