The alternator is an important part of your vehicle and vital for getting you from point A to point B safely. Its main job is keeping your battery charged. If your alternator isn’t working properly, you won’t have the ability to turn your engine over or use any electronic components such as your radio and headlights. Here are six signs to look out for to see if you might need an alternator repair from your Acura dealer in Indianapolis, IN.
6 Signs Your Acura May Need an Alternator Repair
1. Dimmed Lights
Your alternator may be running on its last legs if you start your car and notice some dimming of your key lights. Your headlights, dome, and radio lights may also be affected. They can appear faded or dim, and some sporadic blinking may occur. Regardless of whether or not the blinking is constant or intermittent, this is often a sign of a dying alternator.
2. Burnt Rubber Smell
Although this sign is not as common as others, it can be an indicator. Alternator belts that cannot rotate freely on the pulleys can cause friction which can lead the belt to heat up. The belt can heat up to the point that it smells like burned rubber if this happens.
3. Battery Repeatedly Dies
There’s a good chance that the alternator isn’t capable of charging the battery if your vehicle fails to start. It’s best to take your vehicle to the shop immediately if this happens repeatedly in a short time. You could also endanger your starter and battery by not doing so, as they are all interconnected. It is best to detect this quickly so you don’t have to replace multiple parts.
4. Difficult to Start
If your car is having trouble starting, or turning over slowly before it starts, this could indicate that your alternator is wearing out. Your alternator may not be working properly, or the brushes aren’t reaching the coil as they should. This is a sign that you need to have it checked by a certified technician sooner rather than later.
5. Malfunctioning Accessories
Alternator problems can lead to electronics malfunctions, such as unresponsive or slow accessories. Alternator issues may cause your windows not to roll as smoothly as they should, seat warmers not to work properly, and your speedometer to stop working. Your radio and other accessories will usually become disconnected before your headlights if the alternator conks out.
6. Grinding Sound
If you hear a grinding sound coming from your vehicle, it could be an alternator problem. The grinding can often be caused by a worn, dirty, or damaged bearing. It can also mean the voltage regulator could be telling your alternator to charge more frequently than it should, which can often produce a whining sound. Moreover, your alternator might not be receiving enough power from the battery. Double-check your battery for a loose connection if you hear this type of noise.
If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms with your vehicle, head down to Ed Martin Acura today. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will provide you with a consultation and set you up with a service appointment to make sure your automobile is always running in tip-top shape.
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