How to Troubleshoot Alternator Problems

If you think that the alternator on your car may be going bad, there are a few different ways that you can check the health of your car's alternator to ensure that it is in working condition. The alternator is what keeps the battery in your car charged, so it is vital to keep it functioning properly.

• Locate the alternator within the inner workings of the car. The alternator should be securely attached to the engine. If there any any loose wires or bolts this could be the source of the problem. Replace any loose or frayed wires and tighten all bolts to see if this solves the problem.

• Turn on the engine of the car and place the car in park. Turn on the car's headlights and leave them on while the car is running. Observe the brightness of the lights to see if they gradually get dimmer as the car is running. If the alternator is working correctly the lights on the car should stay brightly lit.

• Use a battery tester to test the voltage of the battery. If the battery is being properly charged, it should read at least 10 volts. If the voltage of the battery is less than this when the car is running, then the alternator is not properly powering the battery as it should. 

• Check the alternator belt or serpentine belt depending on the make and model of the car. The belt should wrap around the alternator and fit snugly. Inspect the belt to see if it is torn or loose. If the belt is torn, frayed or loose this could be causing the alternator to not charge the battery properly. If the belt is squealing while the car is running, this could be a sign that the belt is loose.