One of the most important engine components is the alternator. It’s a mini generator that produces electricity for your car’s systems and devices. Unfortunately, time or damage can cause alternator problems. These are a few of the signs that you may need to visit your Chevy dealer for an alternator repair.
Battery Warning Light
Your engine contains numerous sensors, each of which connects to an important component. These sensors receive instructions from your computer and also report on the health and condition of their connected component. If something goes wrong, the relevant sensor will signal your computer, and the computer will illuminate the warning light.
An alternator can cause the light to come on if its voltage output drops below a certain level. Under normal conditions, an alternator supplies more power than your car’s systems require and should supply at least 14.5 volts even at full load. If the alternator’s output drops to 13 volts or less, it’s a sign the alternator is potentially failing. We’ll investigate and either repair the problem or replace the alternator to fix this issue.
Burning Wiring
A vast network of electrical wiring spreads from the alternator to almost every system in your car. These wires continuously supply electricity to every system that needs it. Each wire is securely protected against damage from heat and dirt by thick plastic insulation. The best protection, however, can’t protect wiring against time. As electrical wiring ages, it becomes brittle, and this can cause it to break.
A broken wire will immediately shut down the system it connects to, as electricity can’t flow through the break. The alternator will continue to supply electricity to the through the wire, and the wire will heat up. If the wire gets hot enough, it will set its protective insulation on fire, and you’ll smell the acrid stench of burning plastic. Our technicians can quickly trace broken or damaged wires and replace them.
Damaged Battery
The alternator’s main function is to supply electricity to your Chevy’s systems, and its secondary function is to recharge the battery. Under normal conditions, the alternator charges the battery at full power for a few minutes, then switches to a reduced and sustained charging rate. The recharging level drops as charging at full power can damage the alternator and the battery.
If your battery is already damaged, it won’t send the confirmation that it successfully received the initial charge. This causes the alternator to continue to supply full power to the battery. This overcharging can quickly damage even a healthy alternator. We’ll replace the damaged battery and we may need to replace the alternator, depending on its condition.
A worn or damaged alternator will cause major electrical issues until it is repaired or replaced. Contact our service department today at Olson Chevrolet in Redwood Falls, MN.
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