Do You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Chrysler Dealer?

The alternator in your Chrysler serves a vital function. It’s responsible for generating all the power to supply your car’s electrical needs. On average, an alternator will last for eight years before it needs to be replaced. As the alternator gets older, it can suffer problems, and you’ll need an alternator repair. As your Chrysler dealer, we can repair or replace the alternator for you. These are a few signs that you’ll need to see us.

Dim Lights

Dim headlight bulbs can mean that the bulbs are worn out and are about to blow. This lighting problem can also signify that you have an alternator problem. The alternator supplies the electrical power for your car’s systems, including the headlights. When your alternator is operating normally, it can easily supply enough power, but as the alternator ages, it produces less electricity.

If your alternator can’t produce enough power for all the components that require it, your car’s computer will have to decide which components should receive the limited available power. If your lights are dim, your alternator is supplying just enough power to activate the lights. If your lights suddenly become brighter than they should, this means the alternator is overcompensating and supplying more power than it should.

Battery Warning Light

A dash light fighting up is a sign of trouble. The warning lights on your dash are connected to sensors that are emplaced thought-out your car. Each of these sensors monitors the component they’re attached to for signs of trouble. The battery-shaped warning light signals a problem with your electrical system. The problem could be with the battery, the alternator, or the connections between them.

A healthy alternator produces 14.5 volts, and if it’s under a heavy load, this output can drop to 12.5 volts. A heavy load would mean that all your car’s electrical systems are on and your battery is charging. If the alternator output drops to 12 volts or less, your alternator is wearing out. An output this low will trigger the warning light. Our technicians will test your alternator to see if it’s causing the problem.

Bad Smells

The smells of hot metal or burning wiring from your engine can point to an alternator problem. As your alternator gets older, it produces less electricity. The reduced output means that your car’s electrical systems won’t receive all of the power that they need. Your alternator will spin faster than it should to try and produce more power in an attempt to generate extra electricity.

By spinning faster, your alternator puts itself under additional strain. This causes the alternator to heat up, and the hot metal smell is a sign that it’s overworking. The additional heat it generates can damage the insulation around the alternator wiring which produces a burning plastic smell. Your alternator would need to be replaced.

If you see any signs that your alternator is falling, call our service department at Pearl Chrysler Dodge Jeep and RAM.

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