8 Signs of a Problematic Car Alternator
Basically, to start the engine in a car, there are three parts. Car alternator is one part that must be considered. This is because most people only pay attention to the battery. In fact, each component of the car is interconnected. For example, the maximum work that the battery can perform is due to the good condition of the alternator.
As is known, a car is a concept made up of various engine parts. The alternator consists of supporting specifications. The task that car owners must understand is how to perform maintenance. Because, no matter what, engine components wear out faster. This condition then makes you need to pay attention to the service interval.
Moreover, this is also closely related to the safety of the driver. Indeed, car maintenance certainly requires an additional budget. However, shouldn't that budget have been prepared as a consequence of buying a car?
Here are the signs of a car alternator failure:
1. Burning smell
The car alternator is one part of the electrical generator in the car engine. It is closely related to whether the battery works or not. This is the reason why when the battery part does not want to work optimally. The step that must be observed is to check the dynamo ampere part.
In essence, the alternator functions in the process of charging the battery while working. Here it is clear how it is a crucial component that allows you to enjoy a car with comfortable and safe performance.
Now, the first sign of its damage is marked by a burning smell from the car engine. This can happen due to several factors. For example, the engine working too hard. While the battery does not want to work according to commands.
2. Noise
The next sign is the emergence of squeaking sounds. Car drivers must understand that problems with the engine always cause discomfort. Especially when squeaking sounds start to come from the car engine. Just like in other vehicle engines. Where squeaking is often caused by certain components being twisted.
This condition worsens if the alternator does not show good performance. Therefore, it is advisable that when squeaking is heard, you should immediately rush to the nearest car workshop. After all, dangerous conditions for the driver are often caused by engine parts that do not want to work properly.
3. Dimming headlights
Not always headlights serve as indicators of alternator damage. However, they can serve as a small warning. Drivers must ensure that even the smallest damage occurring in the car is addressed. After all, the components of each car are interconnected.
You should not ignore this because it is closely related to the safety of the driver and passengers. Do not let ignoring these signs lead to more severe engine damage. Of course, this will have a negative impact on the vehicle; if not careful, the damage to the car will spread to other parts.
4. Indicator light on
As for a more specific sign, it will also appear. When the indicator light on the dashboard lights up. This indicator directly refers to the condition of the alternator. If it is assessed that you cannot fix it yourself, it is best to head to the nearest car workshop.
Also, choose a sufficiently large workshop. This is to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis. Because, often damage to the alternator is mistaken for damage to the battery. This is what makes the workshop not repair the alternator condition but instead replace the battery. Of course, this is a very wrong step.
5. Battery condition
Several sources state that damage to the working system of the dynamo ampere will directly impact the battery condition. The point that needs to be distinguished is how to differentiate damage to the battery from the failure of the alternator system. A simple step that can be taken is to start the vehicle and observe the jumper battery condition.
Next, disconnect the cable connected to the jumper. If the vehicle is still running, the problem lies with the battery. Whereas if the car dies when slowly unplugged, then the prediction of alternator damage is indeed true.
6. Check connections
Before taking the car to the workshop, it is advisable to check for issues with the connections. The systems that are certainly related are the battery and the alternator itself. If the cable connections show signs of peeling, then you should focus on that cable. Now, if the connection condition is fine, the possibility of dynamo ampere damage is increasing. Of course, this is not something dangerous. However, it will become dangerous if you ignore it.
7. Battery not functioning
As explained, the alternator is part of the electrical generator that is directly connected to the battery. When it has problems, of course, the most affected element is the battery itself. The common issue is inaccurate predictions.
The failure of the dynamo ampere function is often said to be due to battery damage. Thus, the battery replacement is carried out. This condition certainly makes the battery unable to function optimally. So, it is better to observe other indicators to ensure that the alternator needs more maintenance.
8. Excessive power supply
Another sign that the alternator is damaged is an excessive power supply. Many sources state that the voltage received should not exceed 15 volts. When this continues to happen, the likelihood of dynamo ampere damage increases significantly. A weak car alternator is certainly not something that should be left alone, but must be repaired immediately as it can endanger the driver.
So, from now on, pay attention to the car you use daily. Don't forget to perform regular engine maintenance. After all, the car alternator is an important component for the engine.
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