The alternator is one of your CDJR vehicle’s essential components. It produces electricity for your car’s systems and devices. If your alternator is failing, a variety of problems will develop, from dim lights to battery failure. As your local CDJR dealer, we can repair any alternator problem for you. These are a few signs you need to visit us for an alternator repair.
Battery Warning Light
When your engine starts, all the dash warning lights will illuminate and go out again. If the battery light stays on, this is a sign of a problem in your car’s electrical system. The problem could be caused by a battery issue, an electrical short, or other issues. It can also light up due to a worn alternator.
A healthy alternator produces 14.5 volts, which is sufficient to supply your car’s electrical requirements. As the alternator ages, its voltage output drops. If sensors attached to the alternator detect that the alternator’s output is 12 volts or less, the battery light will immediately illuminate. At this output level, your car can’t sustain the electrical system. We can replace the alternator to fix this problem.
Rotten Egg Smell
A nasty rotten egg smell from the engine is usually a sign of a failing battery. The battery failure could be due to a damaged alternator. A damaged alternator will malfunction, and this can lead to battery damage. One of the chief functions of the alternator is to ensure that your battery is always fully charged.
When your engine starts, the alternator charges the battery at full power for five minutes and then switches to recharging at a reduced rate. This reduction is essential to protect the alternator and the battery from damage. If your alternator is malfunctioning, it will continue to charge at full power, and this causes the battery to overheat and produce hydrogen sulfide. We will install a new alternator to solve this problem.
Starting Problems
Your car could have a starting problem due to a worn battery, damaged wiring, or a failing starter motor. A damaged alternator can also cause a starting problem. As we’ve seen, an aging alternator doesn’t produce the level of power it once did. The battery uses a set amount of power to start your engine, and it depends on the alternator to replace this power.
If the alternator doesn’t supply enough power to your battery, starting the engine will become progressively more difficult. Our technicians will need to examine your car to determine the cause of the problem so we can fix it.
These are some of the possible signs of a problem alternator. If you experience any of them, schedule a service appointment at Charbonneau Chrysler Center.
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