Your alternator is a relatively simple component. As the crankshaft of your car turns, it produces mechanical energy. The alternator takes this mechanical energy and turns it into electrical energy. This energy is then used to power the electrical systems in your car. As an alternator gets older, it starts to get weaker and it will need to be replaced. In Delaware, OH, your friendly Chrysler dealer can help you when you need an alternator repair.
Dim then Bright Headlights
When your alternator gets older, it becomes less able to produce electricity. Your car’s demand for electricity, however, remains the same. This results in an electrical shortfall. Since your car has no other way to produce more electricity, your car’s computer has to allocate the reduced power according to demand. When you switch on your headlights, they’ll be dim initially. This is because the computer allocates just enough power for the headlights to work.
If the electrical demand is suddenly reduced, by you switching off the seat heaters, for example, your computer will suddenly have more electricity available. This extra energy will be transferred to the headlights to compensate, and the extra juice will suddenly cause the headlights to burn much brighter. If you notice your headlights are fluctuating, call us and we’ll replace your alternator.
Strange Glitches
The reduced power available from a fading alternator will also cause problems for your car’s other accessories. Under normal circumstances, numerous accessories operating simultaneously will all work fine. When there’s a reduction in electricity, your computer will try to manage the power to these systems too. This can result in odd situations, for example, a sunroof that opened normally and then suddenly just won’t close.
As your alternator gets weaker, it will supply even less power. This will cause the electrical glitches to increase in frequency. It can also light up your check battery light, as the fluctuating power supply will cause the sensors to send a warning signal to your car’s computer. Our technicians will check your alternator, and we’ll fix the problem.
Weird Noises
Every driver is very familiar with the sounds their car makes. This familiarity also makes it easy to recognize a strange new sound. An unfamiliar whining sound is likely the sign of a problem with your charging system. As the crankshaft turns, it causes a long belt called the alternator belt to move at high speed. This belt runs over several pulleys, and this causes the pulleys to spin. As the pulleys spin, they power the components they’re attached to.
Your alternator belt is made from tough rubber, but it can wear out over time. It can also shift slightly due to a jammed pulley. Both of these possibilities will cause a whining sound.
Your alternator will never just fail. There are always warning signs. If you suspect an alternator problem, call us at Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Delaware.
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