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May 1, 2022
If you notice that your headlights are flickering at night, that's something to pay attention to. While there could be many different things that could cause that problem, one possibility is your vehicle's alternator.
The alternator takes mechanical energy from the engine and turns it into electricity, in essence a generator. The current it makes charges the battery and supplies power to the vehicle's electrical systems. An alternator is made up of several different parts: a pulley, magnets, coil wires, brushes and a voltage regulator. While your vehicle is running, these parts get a good workout and, after time, they begin to wear out.
Other symptoms of a failing alternator include your vehicle's lights dimming, the power windows going up and down more slowly than they used to, your power seats not moving quite as fast as before.
Another sign of a worn out alternator is engine stalling. Vehicles with fuel injection require a certain amount of power, and when an alternator is going bad, your engine could stall because the alternator isn't cranking out enough of it.
An alternator on its last legs can also fail to charge your battery properly. Sometimes your battery isn't getting enough charge from the alternator and will go dead. It also can be the opposite problem. The battery is getting too much power and will cause the battery to get hot. Your vehicle may give you a clue on the instrument panel. If you see any of these warning lights, take note: Check Engine, ALT, CHARGE or one that looks like a picture of a battery. If that light is on, it's time to have your service facility give it a look.
As mentioned earlier, there are other components of your vehicle's electrical system that can fail, such as a worn out serpentine belt or a malfunctioning voltage regulator. A reputable service facility has diagnostic tools to pinpoint the causes of your problems. And when your issues are fixed, your electrical system will be back to its hard-working self. You'll get a real charge out of it!
Tuffy Holland
90 Waverly Rd.
Holland, Michigan 49423
616.394.0880
https://www.tuffyholland.com/
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November 24, 2024
Maybe you've been cooped up for a while and are yearning for a change of scenery. Or maybe you need to visit a relative who lives far away. You choose not to fork out the big bucks for airline tickets, so it's time for a road trip. Make sure you're road ready by having your vehicle professiona... More
November 17, 2024
At one time or another, most drivers honk their horn at someone who might be texting at a stoplight or not paying attention when they're driving. But what happens when you tap on your horn and all of a sudden it won't quit? Everyone's looking at you like you're an angry jerk and all you want to ... More
