The sooner you recognize alternator trouble, the sooner you can get that resolved. You might even be able to save your car’s battery from draining too low. Here’s what Jim’s German Auto wants you to know about alternator issues.
You’re Seeing a Warning Light on the Dashboard
Very often if there’s a problem with your German car’s alternator, you’ll see a dashboard warning light letting you know something isn’t working properly. That light might look like it’s about the battery, even if the problem is the alternator. The key is that if you see a warning light, get the entire electrical system inspected to see what exactly is causing the problem.
You Smell Hot Electrical Smells
Hot electrical smells are never a good sign. This could mean that there’s wiring somewhere that is too hot, but it could also mean there are problems elsewhere. Your car’s alternator and the electrical system rely on a series of belts, pulleys, and bearings to generate and to transfer that power. If any of them are locked up or not functioning properly, they can smell hot.
You’re Hearing Some Odd Sounds
You might also be hearing some new sounds if your alternator is having trouble. For instance, pulleys and bearings can squeal or squeak when they’re not working well. Belts may also make some of the same sounds. Within the alternator, itself are a series of bearings that have to be able to turn freely, too. When the alternator is under a heavy load, like when you have multiple things turned on, you might hear those sounds more.
You’re Seeing Battery Issues
Your alternator feeds power back to the battery while the car is running. But if the alternator is having issues, then it can’t keep up with what the battery needs. You might not notice this at first, because other items keep functioning. Eventually, though, the battery gets drained enough that it stops working well and you might not be able to start the car. That’s when you might notice that the alternator itself is what’s having trouble.
Having issues with your German car’s alternator? Jim’s German Auto in Corona, CA can help. Give us a call today and we will make sure to test both your battery and your alternator, so we can make sure that we address the entire issue for you. You’ll be safely back on the road again quickly and safely.