15 Jul Auto Electrical System Part 6: Alternator
This multi-part blog series breaks down a vehicle’s electrical system into easy-to-understand chunks. Part 1 was an overview of the basic principles of your auto electrical system. Part 2 discussed the ignition & starter, auto lights, and auxiliary systems. Part 3 detailed the importance of car fuses in your vehicle’s electrical system. Part 4 focused on the engine control unit (ECU) and how it works with your vehicle’s on-board computers to run the electrical system. In Part 5, I explained how the car battery and starter motor work with other electrical system components and how routine auto maintenance helps extend their lifespan. In the 6th and final blog of this series, we concentrate on the alternator, a pivotal part in your vehicle’s electrical system, and how it can cause power loss and weak performance.
What Is An Alternator?
The alternator produces the electricity needed to power your vehicle’s electrical systems while the engine is running. The alternator ensures the battery will have enough energy to complete the ignition process the next time the engine starts.
How Does It Work?
Your vehicle’s alternator uses a drive belt to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. It produces alternating current (AC), which it converts to direct current (DC) before storing it in the vehicle’s battery. Your car’s alternator recharges the battery and powers electrical features like the lights and wipers.
Electrical System Refresher
The three main parts of your car’s electrical system are the battery, alternator, and starter motor. Every electrical feature in your vehicle draws power via a complex web of circuitry and switches.
Signs Your Alternator Is Failing
Since the alternator connects to many vehicle systems, when it fails, it can cause numerous types of car trouble. Let’s review some examples below.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Depending on your car’s age and model, the warning lights for a failing alternator may differ. You may see a Check Engine Light, a battery icon, or the words “ALT” or “GEN” illuminated.
Dead Car Battery
Since the alternator recharges and stores energy in the car battery, if it isn’t working correctly, your battery may drain.
Dim or Flickering Lights
When your vehicle’s alternator starts to fail, you may notice that your headlights or interior lighting may change in intensity. They may go from bright to dim in quick succession, or start bright and slowly fade the longer they are in use.
Power Loss
The drive belt supplies power to and from the alternator, so if it is worn, loose, or broken, your car will experience power loss. Different vehicles use different types of drive belts, so check your owner’s manual to see which one your vehicle has. An experienced service technician can quickly and safely replace a bad drive belt to get you back on the road.
Weak Performance
A bad alternator can create mechanical problems in the engine, resulting in weak performance. Your vehicle may stall, have a rough idle, or even struggle with tasks like automatic windows and door locks. If you feel like your car has weak performance, make a diagnostic service appointment right away.
Electrical Systems Service & Repairs
Have your automobile’s electrical system inspected regularly and kept in good working order. Never ignore minor electrical problems, as they may be a symptom of a more serious circuit issue that could cause serious malfunctions later. An electrical system failure could have disastrous consequences if it occurs while driving your vehicle.
We proudly use and support various diagnostic tools, including launch scanners and testers, to diagnose your electrical system at Ron’s Garage. A quick diagnosis can limit unnecessary labor costs. Our skilled technicians use electrical and computerized diagnostic tools to identify the source of your vehicle’s power loss or weak performance issues. This state-of-the-art equipment lets us pinpoint the necessary repairs and get you back on the road faster.
Schedule Service in Ann Arbor, MI
We would love to hear from you. Call us today at (734) 961-4701 or visit us online to make an appointment for all your electrical system or alternator diagnostic service needs.
Complete Series: Auto Electrical Systems in 6 Parts
Be sure to keep up with the entire series: