Tips on Alternator Problems
Alternator problems are not one of the more common issues that come up with vehicles, but it does happen. If you think that is the problem, you are wise to troubleshoot the entire charging system first before replacing it. New alternators can easily exceed $300, and alternators in newer vehicles are not repairable as they once were.
Alternator problems are not one of the more common issues that come up with vehicles, but it does happen. If you think that is the problem, you are wise to troubleshoot the entire charging system first before replacing it. New alternators can easily exceed $300, and alternators in newer vehicles are not repairable as they once were.
Tips On Troubleshooting First
Troubleshoot your charging system before you assume the alternator is your problem for sure. There are actually four parts to the charging system: the ground wire, battery, voltage regulator and alternator.
Check your battery and ground wires first since they are the simplest to troubleshoot and fix. The ground wire and cables that connect to the battery must be free of corrosion since corrosion prevents proper contact. Clean connections with a wire brush as needed, start the car and see if the battery is taking a charge.
Your local auto parts store may be able to test your voltage regulator if yours is separate from the alternator. It is a small device that is attached to the firewall. If it's bad, it is easy and cheap to replace it.
Tips on Repair or Replacement
Some older GM and Dodge alternators had brushes on the inside. These brushes could be replaced, the alternator reassembled and your problem was solved.
If your alternator is bad and you cannot replace the brushes and you are short on funds, check with an auto salvage yard before you buy a new one. New ones are quite expensive! Take your old one off and bring it to the salvage yard with you. You may have to remove it from a scrap vehicle, so bring your tools with you.
Newer alternators almost exclusively now have the voltage regulator built in to the alternator. That means you must replace the entire alternator even if the problem was just a faulty voltage regulator inside the alternator.