Your alternator plays a key role in keeping your car running. It’s responsible for charging up your battery so the battery can do its job properly. So, if you need an alternator repair, then you’ll probably have trouble getting the car started. Your Ford dealer deals with fixing alternators all the time, though, so they’ll have no problem repairing yours when you bring your car in.
You Can’t Start Your Car
As we said, you’ll have trouble starting your car if the alternator isn’t working properly. In some cases, you may be able to get your car started, but it’ll take a little longer than normal because your alternator is struggling. Problems with your battery, starter, fuses, and spark plugs can also contribute to difficulty starting the engine.
You Have Electrical Issues
If the electrical parts of your car are acting strangely, then it’s a sign there’s a problem with either your battery or your alternator. Usually, it’s parts such as the headlights, the radio/infotainment system, power windows, and power-adjustable seats that are hit first. Your dash lights may also get dimmer as the problem gets worse.
You Hear a Whining or Growling Sound
Whining and growling noises are tell-tale signs that your alternator is in trouble. These noises can also be heard when you have failed bearings or a bad rotor shaft. Noises rarely happen just once, and they’ll start to become more frequent if the problem goes unchecked. Other issues will crop up pretty soon, too, so head to the dealer as soon as you can.
You Stall
Because your alternator is a key part in getting the engine to start up and stay running, you’ll probably start stalling when the alternator is in disrepair. You’ll typically have trouble starting when you attempt to restart the car, and you might not be able to get it restarted at all.
You Can’t Jumpstart the Car
When your car’s battery dies, then the car can typically be jumpstarted and stay running. If you jumpstart the car but it stops running soon after, then your alternator is probably broken.
Alternator Maintenance Tips from Your Ford Dealer
Preventative maintenance will help your alternator last a long time. Take a peek under the hood every so often and check how everything looks. Check the connection between your alternator and battery; if the connections are dirty or loose, then visit the dealer to get them dealt with. Always follow your dealer’s advice about replacing damaged connectors and terminals. Also, check the alternator belt for signs of wear, and have it replaced if it’s looking a little rough.
Visit Asheville Ford to get your alternator fixed and get your car back running smoothly. Make sure you also stop by for routine maintenance to help prevent issues as much as possible
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