Wondering What Causes Alternators to Go Bad?

Is your vehicle having starting problems?  Are you worried about what might cause alternators to go bad?  The alternator, located on the engine, provides power to the battery and continuously charges the battery and the car’s electrical systems and computers. Its primary job is to keep the electrical system up and running in place of the battery. Along with the starter, the battery’s job is to start the car, and then the starter keeps it running.

An alternator typically lasts about seven years or about 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Some mechanics, though, say they typically see alternators last about 80,000 miles, or some cars will need it to be replaced after 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Several factors can affect how long a starter lasts, including the quality of the part, conditions in which the car is driven, and how many electronics are being used inside the car.

Oftentimes, the starter will go out with little or no warning. But there are a few signs to look out for that can alert you that the alternator is about to die:

• The headlights start pulsating at night, from dim to bright.
• Overused as when charging several electronics at once.
• An electrical burning smell coming from the alternator, or the battery.
• The alternator warning light or other dashboard warning lights come on.
• Your car radio or other electrical components may work intermittently.
• A squealing noise in your car’s engine.

What causes an Alternator to go bad?

• Jumpstart the car the wrong way.
• Install an accessory inside that overloads it.
• Fluid leaks in the starter.
• A tight belt.

When the alternator goes bad, the electronic accessories try to draw all of their power off the battery, which can cause the battery to die as well. That’s why, oftentimes, the alternator, not the battery, is the problem in the first place. If you see the battery light on, get it checked out. If the headlights are dimming, it’s important to get a charging system test.

Wondering what causes alternators to go bad? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about the relationship between starters, alternators, and batteries and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.