How do you know if your alternator is bad?
Your car heavily depends on the electricity produced under the hood. In this sector, two main parts are vital: the alternator and the starter. The alternator makes sure your battery's got juice and keeps all your gadgets running. Next, the starter gives your engine a push to start it up.
Signs of a Failing Alternator
1. Dimming Lights
You might notice your headlights looking a bit dim, or the interior lights flickering. It's especially noticeable when you're just idling at a red light or cranking up the heat on a chilly morning.
2. Battery Issues
If you're dealing with a car that needs jump-starts more often or a battery that's calling it quits way too early, your alternator might be the culprit. So how do you know if your alternator is bad? By taking a closer look at it before you end up stranded somewhere inconvenient.
3. Warning Lights
These days, most vehicles come with their built-in whistle-blower on the dashboard. So when that signal light pops on take it as your cue to get things checked out.
Signs of a Failing Starter
1. Starting Problems
For most cars, if you're turning the ignition key and all you're getting is the silent treatment or half-hearted clicks, the starters might be waving the white flag.
2. Smoke or Burning Smell
In the worst-case scenario, your nose might pick up on trouble before your ears do. When you catch a whiff of something burning or spot smoke when you're cranking the engine, that's your starter's way of throwing in the towel.
While these hints might point you in the right direction, getting to the root of the problem often needs a pro's touch and special equipment. Therefore if you've got a hunch that it's the alternators or starters acting up, it's smart to chat with a mechanic before things get worse. Catching these warning signs early could save you from being stranded on the side of the road and shelling out big bucks for repairs.
Wondering how do you know if your alternator is bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about starters and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Your car heavily depends on the electricity produced under the hood. In this sector, two main parts are vital: the alternator and the starter. The alternator makes sure your battery's got juice and keeps all your gadgets running. Next, the starter gives your engine a push to start it up.
Signs of a Failing Alternator
1. Dimming Lights
You might notice your headlights looking a bit dim, or the interior lights flickering. It's especially noticeable when you're just idling at a red light or cranking up the heat on a chilly morning.
2. Battery Issues
If you're dealing with a car that needs jump-starts more often or a battery that's calling it quits way too early, your alternator might be the culprit. So how do you know if your alternator is bad? By taking a closer look at it before you end up stranded somewhere inconvenient.
3. Warning Lights
These days, most vehicles come with their built-in whistle-blower on the dashboard. So when that signal light pops on take it as your cue to get things checked out.
Signs of a Failing Starter
1. Starting Problems
For most cars, if you're turning the ignition key and all you're getting is the silent treatment or half-hearted clicks, the starters might be waving the white flag.
2. Smoke or Burning Smell
In the worst-case scenario, your nose might pick up on trouble before your ears do. When you catch a whiff of something burning or spot smoke when you're cranking the engine, that's your starter's way of throwing in the towel.
While these hints might point you in the right direction, getting to the root of the problem often needs a pro's touch and special equipment. Therefore if you've got a hunch that it's the alternators or starters acting up, it's smart to chat with a mechanic before things get worse. Catching these warning signs early could save you from being stranded on the side of the road and shelling out big bucks for repairs.
Wondering how do you know if your alternator is bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about starters and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
