WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR CAR’S ALTERNATOR

                                                        Image shown is from Autozone

 

 Your car has many parts, and in a majority of cases the ones unseen are the most important. One such part is your Alternator.  For over 27 years our Car Repair Shop in Astoria has been serving the Astoria Queens community. New clients sometimes come in with a dead battery and seek help because the battery is fairly new and they want to know why it keeps dying. The problem is the alternator, and a dead battery is but one symptom of a bad alternator.

 

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A BAD ALTERNATOR?

A bad car alternator can cause several noticeable symptoms. For instance, you may notice the headlights and dashboard lights may dim or flicker while driving. You might experience problems with electrical components, such as power windows, locks, or the radio, or the battery warning light or check engine light may illuminate on your dashboard. You may also notice strange noises, as a failing alternator can produce grinding or whining noises due to worn-out bearings or internal issues.

The engine may struggle to start or may not start at all if the alternator isn't providing enough power, and of course the aforementioned dead battery, which can be jumpstarted, but will not last because there isn’t a functional alternator to recharge it. Lastly, you may notice a burning smell as overheating alternators can emit a burning smell, which may indicate electrical issues or overheating. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have your alternator checked as soon as possible by a professional mechanic, or if in the NYC area one that does Auto Repair in Astoria.

 

HOW DO YOU DIAGNOSE A BAD ALTERNATOR?

Diagnosing a bad car alternator involves several steps. Here’s a systematic approach you can follow. Begin with a visual inspection and check for damage. Look for any visible signs of wear, such as frayed wires, burnt connectors, or a cracked alternator casing. Also inspect the belt and ensure the serpentine belt is in good condition and properly tensioned.

Next do a battery test and test the battery voltage. Use a multimeter to check the voltage of the battery. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when the engine is off. Start the car and with the engine running, check the voltage again. It should read between 13.7 and 14.7 volts if the alternator is functioning properly.

Thirdly, load test the battery. Some auto parts stores offer free battery and alternator testing. A load tester can help assess the performance under load. Listen for unusual noises such as grinding or whining. These unusual sounds from the alternator can indicate internal issues, such as worn bearings.

Use a Diagnostic Tool to scan for codes. If your check engine or battery light is on, using an OBD-II scanner can help identify any codes related to the charging system. Examine the Voltage Regulator. Some alternators have an external voltage regulator that can fail. Check if this component is functioning properly.

If you suspect the alternator is bad after these steps, a professional mechanic will advise of the next steps.

 

SHOULD I REPAIR THE ALTERNATOR OR REPLACE IT?

A professional mechanic like our Car Repair Shop in Astoria  will be able to advise you on this. Whether to replace or fix an alternator depends on several factors. First, examine the severity of the issue. If the problem is something simple, like worn brushes or a faulty voltage regulator, you might be able to repair it at a lower cost. On the other hand, If the alternator has significant internal damage, replacement is usually more practical.

Also consider the age of the alternator. If the alternator is relatively new, repairs may make sense. However, if it’s older and showing signs of wear, replacement could be more beneficial in the long run.

In the case of replacement, factor in reliability. A new alternator may provide more reliability and longer service life compared to a repaired unit, which might fail again soon.

Finally, as with most things, COSTS matter. Assess the cost of repairs versus the cost of a new or remanufactured alternator. Sometimes, repairs can be nearly as expensive as replacement. Factor in a warranty.  A new alternator often comes with a warranty, providing peace of mind that repairs might not. Consider the labor involved in both options. Sometimes, the labor cost to repair might be close to that of replacing it.

If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms or have been told that you have a bad battery or alternator, a consultation with a top Auto Mechanic in Astoria may be in order.

 

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