The alternator is a key component of your engine. You may know that it plays a role in charging the car’s battery, but it does other things, too, so recognizing the signs of a failing alternator is important. If you see any of these signs, head to our CDJR dealer in Salisbury, NC for alternator repair right away.
Dimming or Flickering Headlights
We’ve all been there: we’re driving at night and notice our headlights are not as bright as they once were. If your headlights dim when you’re driving at low speeds or idling and brighten when you rev the engine, it’s a potential indicator that your alternator may be on the outs. The alternator is responsible for providing power to the vehicle’s electrical components, and a weakened output can directly affect the brightness of your headlights.
Warning Lights and Unusual Noises
Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram vehicles, are equipped with warning lights, and one of these is the battery or alternator light, which illuminates when the alternator isn’t producing sufficient power. This light may be shaped like a battery, or it might read “ALT” or “GEN”. Seeing this is a clear sign that it’s time to have your alternator inspected.
Another tell-tale sign is a grinding or whining noise. The alternator has a variety of spinning parts including a rotor, a pulley, and bearings. Wear and tear on these parts can produce unusual sounds that should not be ignored.
Electrical Failures and a Dead Battery
Your car’s alternator powers electrical components. When it starts to fail, it struggles to supply power to all the electrical parts, which may result in the power windows failing to move or the radio turning off. Remember that while batteries can die for a host of reasons, a common one is a faulty alternator. If you’ve recently replaced your battery and it’s dead again or not lasting as long as expected, your alternator might be the culprit.
Difficulty Starting or Frequent Stalling
Your alternator assists in starting the car by supplying power to the spark plugs that ignite the gas in the engine. A dying alternator might not provide enough power, leading to difficulty in starting or frequent stalling. If you’ve ruled out other common issues like a faulty starter or fuel system issues, it’s wise to turn your attention to the alternator.
When it comes to the wellbeing of your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram, don’t take a gamble. Make an appointment with our Mopar Service Center at Randy Marion CDJR of Salisbury today. We have the skills and know-how to take care of whatever issues your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram might be throwing at you.
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