Alternator Repair Jacksonville FL - Top Contractors in Jacksonville, FL

Alternator Repair Jacksonville, FL

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Alternator Repair Jacksonville FL

Find The Right Alternator Repair!

Alternators are a crucial component of your vehicle’s operation. Its plainness as a piece of car equipment does not mean it is not vital to your vehicle’s overall performance. It takes the mechanical energy converted from chemical energy in your engine and turns it into electrical energy. This is then used to power all the other components of your car’s electrical systems, including your air conditioner, headlights, radio, GPS, and all the gadgets you have plugged into the lighter outlet or USB port.

Generally, a new alternator will have a seven-year lifespan or 150,000 to 250,000 kilometers. This depends on multiple factors, such as how you use and store your vehicle, what devices you connect to it, and the quality of the alternator itself. A failing alternator is relatively easy to spot, especially if you know what exactly to look out for. If you recognize these signs right away, you will not need to rely on your luck and act before a small problem becomes a big one.

So, if you are looking to replace your alternator, it is essential to consult with a trusted mechanic and find out which one will suit your needs. There are different kinds of mechanics, and not all of them can be experts on all things. Be sure to ask about what you are in for. To help you further understand what this entails, watch out for these common signs that mean it is time to have your alternator repaired or replaced.

The Warning Light

The most common sign of a failing alternator is when the warning light is on. Most vehicles will have the “ALT” or “GEN” light on. ALT stands for the alternator, and GEN is for the generator. In addition, if the battery light is on, you may also consider checking the alternator as this can be the cause of a dead battery. Still, the dashboard warning light may not always turn on and is not a big deal in most cases because the alternator will most likely need immediate attention anyway.

Delated Starting Or Dead Battery

You may have a worn-out alternator if your car is not starting up right away. This is because your alternator is supposed to provide enough power for the spark plugs to ignite the gasoline in your engine and start your car. A failing alternating would not charge your battery cell completely.

This means a dead battery may indicate a problem with your alternator. To find out which parts are failing, try powering up your battery using an external charger. If the battery is defective, your vehicle may still start, but the lights will quickly dim. Alternatively, if the alternator is the one at fault, your car may not start at all. Therefore, if you notice your battery failing, it is best to check your alternator as well. If you do not, chances are you will continue ending up with another dead battery.

DIM Accessory Lights

Another symptom of a failing alternator is dim or flickering headlights as you accelerate. This is because the lights are not getting enough power to run correctly. This is also true for your interior lights, rear lights, and other electronic lights. Additionally, pay attention to other parts of your car that are powered by electricity, such as your radio, cigarette lighter, USB port, or even your speedometer and tachometer. These less critical parts may stop working long before your lights do.

The Smell Of Burning Rubber

The smell of burning rubber or an electrical fire may mean that your alternator must be checked by an expert immediately. This smell can be caused by several pulleys, belts, and accessories that create excess friction and an overheated alternator. Consequently, an overheated alternator will send too much electricity through your car’s wires and cause a burning smell. If you smell burning of any sort coming from your vehicle, do not hesitate to contact your local mechanic right away.

Grinding Or Whining Noise

In the same way, if your car starts to make strange noises, it may be due to problems with your alternator. The alternator is responsible for producing power to many of your vehicle’s electrical components and accessories. So, if there are problems with the alignment of the alternator’s pulley or belt, you may start to notice a rattling sound coming from your hood. A dirty or worn-out bearing is also one of the most common causes of grinding noises. If the car is making a whining noise, the voltage regulator might be telling the alternator to produce more power than needed.