If your car is having issues with its electrical systems, or shows warning signs in the forms of dim, flickering lights, or a dead battery, you could be facing a problem with your alternator. This system is mounted to the front of the engine, using one of the belt’s rotations to generate power for vital systems such as your lights, dashboard, radio, and ignition. Because it uses electromagnetism to function, it is able to amplify a slight electrical current from the battery into a higher current to power your car’s electronics and recharge your battery.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is not only annoying, but can leave you stranded in an inconvenient location. If you replace your battery but find your vehicle still has a problem with restarting, it is most likely due to a faulty alternator. When the alternator stops working properly, the battery will respond by supplying as much power as it possibly can. This could potentially provide enough power to start your car, but will not have enough power for prolonged use. If you are facing issues with your car starting properly, our technicians will make sure your battery health is up to standard and that your alternator is functioning correctly.
Dim or Flickering Lights
If you find your interior lights are not as bright as they should be, this could be an indicator of an alternator problem. You may also experience your headlights not functioning properly. As soon as you take notice of your interior display or dashboard lights dimming or flickering, or your headlights not performing correctly, it’s a good idea to bring your car in so that we can verify your alternator’s health and perform any necessary replacements or repairs.
Battery Warning Light Turns On
Most cars have a warning light shaped like a battery on their dashboard display. If you notice this light comes on, your car is telling you the battery is not fully charged. While this could indicate the battery is simply not charged, it could also be telling you there is potentially alternator trouble. In some other vehicles, there may be an alternator (ALT) warning light indicator. If you see either of these indicators, bring your vehicle in so our experienced technicians can service the alternator and prevent further issues with your battery.
Worn or Broken Belt
Some of us rely on belts to make sure our pants fit correctly. Cars work in a similar way. If you pop your hood, you should see a belt attached to your engine. If you notice the belt is either not sitting correctly, showing signs of excessive wear, looseness, or cracks, or if it’s gone altogether, there’s a good chance something is wrong with the alternator. If you note any of these, bring your car to our shop where we will not only replace your belt, but will also perform a full examination of your alternator, ensuring it will continuously function correctly for the duration of its lifespan.
New Noises
Cars are known to continuously make strange and unfamiliar noises, each of which could signify various problems. If you hear a growling or whining noise coming from your car, it’s a good idea to bring it in so we can see if it is a sign that your alternator is beginning to fail.
Accessory Issues
Decreased voltage in your vehicle will affect different accessories. You may notice your windows or sunroof open much slower than usual. You may also experience slower response from your radio and windshield wipers. Alternator issues can become very apparent when it takes longer than usual to perform functions when multiple systems are being utilized simultaneously. If you notice this, allow us to properly diagnose and repair your alternator issue and provide you with peace of mind knowing your car’s main electrical function is performing reliably.
Alternators typically last about 7 to 10 years on average, but this lifeline varies based on usage and maintenance. A faulty alternator can damage your car’s electrical systems and battery if left unresolved. You can trust our team at Hi-Lo Voltage to effectively perform any necessary service - everything from minor readjustments and routine maintenance to more intensive alternator repairs or replacements.