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The alternator is part of your electrical charging system. Its role is to generate electricity for all of your car’s electrical systems. Like any other mechanical component, the alternator can eventually wear or get damaged. If this happens, you’ll need an alternator repair at your Honda dealer. These are a few of the signs that you may need a repair.
Battery Light Comes On
The battery light is a warning of a problem in the electrical charging system. The alternator, the battery, and other components have sensors attached to them. These sensors monitor their attached component for signs of wear or damage. If a sensor detects a problem, it will inform your computer, and the warning light will come on.
A worn alternator can trigger the light when its electricity production drops below the minimum level. An alternator, on average, produces 14.5 volts. If it’s under a full load, this can drop to 13 volts. If your alternator is worn, this could cause it to drop to 12 volts, and this will cause the light to come on. Our technicians can test your alternator and replace it if it’s worn.
Electrical Problems
Random electrical problems could happen at any time. The majority of the time, an electrical problem occurs and never repeats itself. If, however, you experience frequent electrical issues, this suggests a problem in the electrical system. The main cause of this type of problem is a worn alternator that can’t supply the necessary power to your car’s systems.
As we saw above, a worn alternator will produce less power. Should your alternator’s output drop to its minimum, electrical problems can occur. Your windows, for example, can suddenly jam open, or the radio will switch off without warning. These glitches are caused by your computer shifting electricity between the various components that require it.
Burning Smells
Hot metal or burning plastic smells for your engine can be signs of alternator problems. If your alternator is worn, and can’t produce the electricity that is demanded, it works harder to produce power. The alternator will spin faster than it should to try and provide additional electricity. As it overworks, this will cause it to overheat and generate hot metal smells.
Burning plastic smells are usually caused by burning insulation. The wiring in your engine can fray or break as it gets older. Broken wiring can’t conduct electricity. As electricity flows into the broken wiring, the wires will heat up. If the wiring overheats, it can cause the plastic insulation to burn.
These are some of the potential signs of a damaged alternator. If you suspect a problem with your alternator, call us at Gates Honda.
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