Signs of Alternator Issues

The alternator plays a key role in the operation of a vehicle. It turns on a vehicle and keeps it running. An alternator also powers the electric system and charges the battery of a vehicle when the engine is running. So what are the signs of alternator issues for your vehicle?

Signs of Alternator Issues

  •  Whining noises
  • Growling noises
  • Smell of hot wires
  • Smell of burning rubber
  • Dim lights
  • Radio turning off
  • Lights flickering
  • The warning light of a battery, ALT or GEN is engaged on the dashboard.

Dead Battery

A dead battery can be a sign of an alternator issue. A battery will work harder and pick up the slack when there’s an alternator issue. Eventually the battery will lose it’s electricity and die. You can check if the issue is with the battery or the alternator by doing a test when you jump start a car. After you jump start a car, immediately take the jumper cables off of the battery. If the car dies, the issue is with the alternator. If the car keeps running, the issue is with battery.