The alternator keeps the battery charged and is an essential part of a vehicle. It’s the alternator that turns on your car and allows you to use all those fantastic electronic accessories. A failing alternator could cause numerous problems and get you stuck next to the road. That is why you need to immediately schedule an alternator repair at your dealership in Lafayette, LA, when you experience any of the following signs.
1. The Battery Light Is On
When the battery light on your car’s dashboard is on, it could be an indication that you have alternator problems. When the alternator is not functioning as it should, it can’t provide the necessary voltage to run the electronic accessories. The battery warning light will then be illuminated.
2. Dim or Flickering Lights
An alternator that is failing doesn’t meet your car’s electrical needs. This could cause your headlights to flicker or go from dim to bright. The alternator is not generating enough power to keep the lights on consistently. It will also affect your dashboard lights, and in some instances, they will even stop working.
3. Your Car’s Accessories are Acting Up
Your car’s onboard computer will cut the power to non-vital accessories when the alternator is not producing enough electricity. You will notice several issues at once. For instance, the windows will operate slower, the sunroof will get stuck, and the heated seats will not work as they should. Avoid using unnecessary accessories until you’ve had your car inspected by a technician.
4. Whining, Growling, and Rattling Sounds
These noises will come from under the hood if there is a problem with the alternator. The noises occur when the serpentine belt becomes misaligned or rubs against the side of the pulley. If the alternator caused damage to the engine, you might hear a rattling sound. To keep a car going with a malfunctioning alternator is nearly impossible. You will get it repaired long before you hear that nasty rattling sound.
5. Strange Odors
When you smell something like burning rubber or burning electrical wires, your alternator is overworked, and the parts are wearing out. The electrical and rubber smell is caused by friction which creates heat. When the alternator is overheating, you will definitely smell it.
6. Difficulty Starting or Stalling
If you find it hard to start your car or keep it running, the alternator might be to blame. The alternator is not charging the battery. This means the car is starting from power stored in the battery. There is simply not enough power from the alternator to keep the engine going.
7. A Dead Battery
Sometimes a dead battery is caused by a failing or malfunctioning alternator. When there is a problem with the alternator, it will not properly charge the battery while the engine is running. One way to check if it’s the alternator and not the battery is to jumpstart your car. If the car dies after the jumpstart, the culprit is most likely your alternator not providing enough power to the battery.
Don’t delay. Act fast and ask a qualified technician to inspect your alternator. Contact Service Cadillac today. Our technicians have the knowledge and skills to ensure that your car’s alternator is in perfect working order.
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