How Often Should An Alternator Be Replaced?
When drivers begin experiencing starting problems with their vehicle, the first thought is that the starter is going bad. However, be sure to have the condition of the alternator and battery checked. The alternator keeps the battery charged, so when the alternator goes bad, the battery will eventually die. You may need to ask your mechanic just how often should an alternator be replaced?
Even though starting systems (which includes starters, alternators and batteries) are designed for repeated use under a variety of weather and road conditions, problems can develop from normal wear and tear, extreme weather conditions, poor roads, or lack of maintenance. Specifically, there are some instances in which alternators can be damaged, such as:
- Using jumper cables wrong,
- Running too many accessories and overloading the charging system,
- Leaking fluid, or
- Bearings damaged by a tight belt.
Just how often should an alternator be replaced? This will mainly depend on the quality of the alternator itself, how the car is driven, and how many electronic accessories are being used.
Unfortunately, alternators can fail with little or no warning. However, there are several signs of a bad alternator that should not be ignored:
- "ALT" or "GEN" symbol lights up on the instrument panel.
- The lights (especially headlights) will go dim and may pulsate from dim to bright.
- The electrical systems and accessories, such as power windows and locks, air conditioning, radio, GPS, etc., will not function properly.
- Bearings in the engine may fail, creating unusual rattles.
- Your engine will stall.
- Your car battery goes dead.
A word of advice: Any of the warnings signs above could leave you stranded somewhere so have the alternator check out as soon as possible.
Wondering how often should alternator be replaced? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about starters, alternators, and car batteries, 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.
When drivers begin experiencing starting problems with their vehicle, the first thought is that the starter is going bad. However, be sure to have the condition of the alternator and battery checked. The alternator keeps the battery charged, so when the alternator goes bad, the battery will eventually die. You may need to ask your mechanic just how often should an alternator be replaced?
Even though starting systems (which includes starters, alternators and batteries) are designed for repeated use under a variety of weather and road conditions, problems can develop from normal wear and tear, extreme weather conditions, poor roads, or lack of maintenance. Specifically, there are some instances in which alternators can be damaged, such as:
- Using jumper cables wrong,
- Running too many accessories and overloading the charging system,
- Leaking fluid, or
- Bearings damaged by a tight belt.
Just how often should an alternator be replaced? This will mainly depend on the quality of the alternator itself, how the car is driven, and how many electronic accessories are being used.
Unfortunately, alternators can fail with little or no warning. However, there are several signs of a bad alternator that should not be ignored:
- "ALT" or "GEN" symbol lights up on the instrument panel.
- The lights (especially headlights) will go dim and may pulsate from dim to bright.
- The electrical systems and accessories, such as power windows and locks, air conditioning, radio, GPS, etc., will not function properly.
- Bearings in the engine may fail, creating unusual rattles.
- Your engine will stall.
- Your car battery goes dead.
A word of advice: Any of the warnings signs above could leave you stranded somewhere so have the alternator check out as soon as possible.
Wondering how often should alternator be replaced? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about starters, alternators, and car batteries, 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.
