Top 5 signs of a failing Alternator Signs of a bad alternator

One of our most common replacement needs, the alternator serves as a charger for your vehicle’s battery. If your alternator is failing it may be sending low or inconsistent voltage to your battery. When this happens, a number of symptoms/signs will start to be apparent. These are the top 5 signs to look out for:

1. A dead battery.

This is the number one symptom of a failing alternator. Once the alternator goes bad, it will no longer charge your battery. If your car won’t start, a good way to check to see if it’s the alternator is to jump start the vehicle using jumper cables. If the vehicle starts after receiving a jump, remove the jumper cables. If the vehicle dies, then there is a good chance it may be the alternator. If it doesn’t shut off, you may just need a new battery.

2. Trouble starting and/or frequent stalling.

This is a common symptom of a failing alternator. When you try to start the vehicle and all you hear is clicking, you may be dealing with an alternator issue. Once you are able to start the vehicle, you may encounter frequent stalling as you travel. This is a safety concern and you should have your car checked asap!!

3. Battery light on or flickering.

This may be your first indication of a failing alternator. If the light is on consistently, it is letting you know that there is low voltage to the battery. If it is flickering, this may indicate inconsistent voltage to the battery.

4. Dim or overly bright lights

Once the voltage regulator inside of the alternator starts to fail, there will be inconsistent voltage delivered to the lights. You may start seeing very dim lights that become very bright for seemingly no reason. Your lights may begin to flicker and then start to blink on and then off sporadically.

5. Slow or malfunctioning accessories

Due to inconsistent voltage coming from the failing alternator, your electric powered accessories may start to malfunction. This can include windows not moving, seat warmers not working or barely working, and your speedometer can start to act erratically.

All of these signs can point to a failing alternator. It is best to get your vehicle looked at asap.

About Chastain Mechanical Solutions

We're a 100% mobile mechanic serving Stockbridge and Metro Atlanta, available 24/7. We don't have a shop to visit. We come to you for diagnostics, brakes, batteries, starters, alternators, and more. Reliable work at affordable prices!

Call or text 678-386-1390