alternators

The alternator is an essential part of your vehicle’s operating system and is a type of electric generator that charges the battery and powers the electrical system when the engine is running. When you start your vehicle, the battery supplies the push needed to get the engine running. Once the engine is running, though, it’s the alternator that supplies the electricity needed to run the engine, lighting, air conditioning, and radio, as well as to keep the battery fully charged. The alternator is driven by a belt connected to the engine.

The alternator generates electricity when the engine is running, which is more than enough to keep the battery charged and run everything. With the alternator at full working capacity, your run time is no longer limited to a small 12 V battery, but by the size of your fuel tank. If the generator fails, however, you’re quickly going to run out of power.

How Can In ’N Out Car Services Help?

  • Thorough examination of the alternator

  • Check functionality and discuss what you’ve experienced

  • Verify the battery is working properly

  • Check fuses and bearings

  • Replace the alternator if needed

auto alternator

What To Watch For:

The alternator includes and depends on mechanical, electrical, and chemical systems, and a fault in any of these areas may lead to alternator failure. Usually, you would be alerted to an alternator problem by the battery light. 

Here are some common problems with the alternator:

  • Headlights may dim

  • Dashboard warning light (battery light)

  • Worn or slipping belts may make noise and may not drive the alternator 100%

  • A smell of burning rubber

  • A faulty battery may overload the alternator, leading to premature failure

  • A short circuit may blow a main fuse, preventing flow from the alternator to the electrical system in the vehicle, including the battery

  • Excessive noise under the hood while the engine is running; may mean your alternator bearings have failed