How to Tell if You Have a Bad Alternator

When it comes to a vehicle’s electrical system, one the most common cases seen at the auto repair shop is a failing alternator. Your car’s alternator is important because it basically converts the engine revving into usable, electrical energy that recharges your car battery. But your car’s electrical system is the power source for several other systems within your vehicle, including GPS, DVD, stereo, interior cabin lights, headlights, taillights, spark plugs, and several other standard car management systems. So, when your alternator is going bad, several other automotive components our also taking a hit.

Continue reading learn how to tell if you have a bad alternator, and what to do if your alternator breakdown has rented your vehicle a total loss.

Sell an Old or Broken Alternator in Indianapolis, Indiana!  317-608-2188
Sell an Old or Broken Alternator in Indianapolis, Indiana! 317-608-2188

Car Alternator Problems

A car alternator is the automotive part that is responsible for turning mechanical energy into electrical energy for the purpose of charging the car battery. In turn, the car battery keeps all other car management systems powered by electricity operating optimally.

In today’s automotive manufacturing industry, innovative advancements and technologies are now incorporated into automotive design, so these days, many modern cars are almost fully reliant on their electrical systems. This is especially true for electric cars, which are becoming more popular among consumers in the automotive industry.

Needless to say, your vehicle’s alternator is very important. Basically, your car won’t run if your alternator breaks down, because if it does, your battery won’t get any charge and will eventually die. And a quick jump start to the battery won’t help if the underlying problem is the alternator.

Top 3 Signs of a Failing Alternator

Because alternators can break down or suddenly stop working without any warning, it is sometimes difficult to detect the signs of failing alternator. However, here are some common signs and signals that tend to indicate a bad or broken alternator:

Your car battery dies a lot or doesn’t hold charge for very long. Because your car battery is not getting the proper charge it needs from the alternator, it will continue to die even if you jump start or replace it.

Your headlights are dimming or illuminating. If you are headlights, taillights, or interior cabin lights are always changing in terms of intensity, your alternator could be to blame.

You detect the smell of burning plastic. The smell of burning plastic is a common symptom of corroded or burned alternator wires and/or internal components.

Does the cost to repair your alternator exceed the total market value of your car? If so, you can sell your totaled car to a local Indianapolis Indiana junk car buyer for instant cash on the spot. Just be sure to choose a reputable and long established cash for cars company for the highest payouts in the most convenient client amenities you could ask for! You can also sell your old or broken alternator!

Would you like to earn instant cash for your junk car today? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get your free quote from an experienced Indianapolis Indiana junk car buyer you can trust. We provide free junk car removal too! No hidden fees ever!

You Should Also Read:

Is My Car Totaled if the Engine Blew?
Do I Need Car Radiator Repair?
When and Why You Need to Change the Motor Oil in Your Car

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188