The truck’s alternator is a wonder. This auto part not only generates voltage to power the battery and your vehicle’s accessories, but it also lets you know when it’s going bad. United Diesel Repair lists the signs of a bad alternator below.
Burning Smells
If you smell burning rubber or wires, your alternator’s internal mechanisms may be wearing out. The burning rubber smell could also be the alternator’s drive belt. If the wires are damaged or frayed, it might smell like an electrical fire in your engine.
Dead Battery
The alternator pushes power back into the battery as it discharges power while your vehicle is running. If the alternator is not sending any power to the battery, the battery will discharge completely and die.
Dim Lights
One of the clearest signs that your alternator is dying is dim lights. You will find it hard to see at night because your headlights are too dim. The interior lights will also dim, including the dashboard light. This is definitely a sign of an alternator problem or dying battery.
Frequent Stalling
The truck’s alternator helps power the spark plugs and if the spark plugs aren’t getting enough power, they will misfire or fail to fire. This will cause your engine to stall. You might stall while sitting at an idle or your engine may stall while you are driving, which is scary and dangerous.
Growling/Whining Noises
If the internal mechanisms of the alternator are wearing down or the belt is loosening, you may hear growling or whining noises coming from your engine. Chances are what is making this noise is the alternator belt rubbing against its own pulley.
Malfunctioning Accessories
Another problem that is caused by a dying alternator is accessory malfunctions. If the alternator cannot power the accessories properly, they will slow down and die. For example, you may go to adjust your power seat only to have it barely move or not move at all. Another example is your GPS or radio not working.
Starting Troubles
If you are having problems getting your vehicle started, this, too, could be the truck’s alternator. It’s possible that the alternator is not generating enough power for the battery.
Warning Light
Finally, a bad alternator will often cause the engine control unit to turn on a dashboard warning light. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you may see an illuminated light that is shaped like a battery, an ALT light, or a GEN light.
United Diesel Repair in Flowery Branch, GA, would be happy to test your diesel truck’s alternator. Give us a call today.
