Does Your Hyundai Need an Alternator Repair?

The alternator generates electrical power as your car moves. This power is used to maintain your battery at full charge and also to supply all the electrical power your car’s electronic components demand. An alternator does last for many years, but it will eventually fail and will need to be replaced. In Fort Smith, AR, your Hyundai dealer can replace it for you. These are some of the signs that you may need an alternator repair.

Battery Warning Light

The battery warning light is often believed to signal a problem with the battery, but it means that there is a problem with the electrical system. The alternator is designed to work at a specific voltage, which is usually 13-14.5 volts. When an alternator starts to fail, its voltage will drop and this can cause the warning light to come on.

The warning light may also start to flick on and off if your alternator is weakening. This is because the demands by the electrical components, for example, the windshield wipers, are constant but the alternator is not able to supply enough power. If the warning light comes on or flickers, we recommend bringing your car to our service department ASAP so we can investigate.

Burning Rubber or Metal Smells

Both of these smells are nasty, but they also represent problems with your alternator. The alternator is driven by a long belt called the serpentine belt that runs through several pulleys. The belt moves at great speed under constant tension and friction in a hot environment, and this can cause wear. A worn belt will give off the smell of burnt rubber.

A worn alternator or damaged wires produce a smell of burning metal. Frayed or damaged wires create resistance to electricity, and as the alternator tries to supply power through them, they heat up and being to smell.

Stalling or Starting Problems

Stalling can be extremely dangerous, especially if it happens when you are traveling fast or overtaking another vehicle. The alternator supplies power to the spark plugs and coils for combustion to take place, which allows your car to move. If the alternator fails, and cannot supply enough power, your car may suddenly stall and just stop dead.

A problem starting your engine can be caused by a weak alternator. If the alternator is weak and cannot charge the battery, your battery power may drop too low to start the ignition. If you hear a clicking sound when you try and start your engine, a damaged alternator is one of the likely culprits.

The good news about a failing alternator is that it will never just fail. There are always warning signs that it is weakening. Now you know some of the signs, if you experience any of them call us right away at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith. Our highly-trained technicians will be happy to check your alternator and replace it if needed.

Image via Hyundai.

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