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Alternator Repair: All You Need to Know

If your car has been giving you trouble starting up lately, or if the lights start to dim when you’re idling, it might be time for some alternator repair. Not sure of what signs to look out for? We’ll go over what an alternator does, common signs that yours is going bad, and what to expect when getting alternator repair done.

What is an Alternator?

Your car’s alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. It does this by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The electrical energy then powers the car’s lights, radio, and other accessories while the engine is running. The battery takes over when the engine is off.

Common Signs of a Bad Alternator

There are a few common signs that your alternator might be going bad. If you notice any of these while driving, it’s time to take your car in for repair:

  • Dimming headlights or interior lights: This can be caused by a failing alternator or a loose connection between the battery and the alternator.
  • Dead battery: If your alternator isn’t charging the battery, eventually the battery will die.
  • Burning smell: A burning smell could indicate that your alternator is overheating and needs to be replaced.
  • Odd sounds: Grinding or squealing noises coming from under the hood could be a sign of a failing alternator bearing.

Alternator Repair Process

Once you’ve brought your car in for repair, one of our expert technicians will first test the charging system to see if the alternator truly is the problem. If it is, we will then remove the serpentine belt and disconnect the negative battery cable before removing the old alternator. We will then install the new alternator and reconnect all of the cables before testing everything to make sure it’s working properly.

If your car’s been giving you trouble starting up or staying powered on, it might be time for some alternator repair. We covered what an alternator does and common signs that yours is going bad. We also briefly went over what you can expect when taking your car in for repair. If you think your car might need some work, don’t wait too long to bring it in-a failing alternator can cause major problems down the line!

Photo by nikkytok from Getty Images via Canva Pro
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