The alternator is an essential part of your engine as it produces electricity. Your Ford has numerous systems for control, safety, and comfort, and all of these systems require electricity to work. Alternators, like any other component, can wear out or sustain damage. If this happens, you’ll need to visit your friendly Ford dealer in Mabank, TX for an alternator repair. These are a few signs your alternator could be in trouble.
Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Ford Dealer in Mabank, TX
Overly Bright Lights
Your headlights should provide a steady luminescence on high-beam and low-beam. If your headlights unexpectedly become dim, this can be mistaken for a simple headlight problem. It can also be a sign of a failing alternator, especially if the lights suddenly blaze brighter than they should.
The issue is caused by a lack of power from the alternator. As an alternator wears out, it produces less electricity. Your car’s computer is forced to intervene and adjust the power supply to various components. The dim lights represent power shifted to another component. The computer will shift additional power to the lights when possible, and this causes them to become overly bright. Replacing the alternator will fix this problem.
Damaged Battery
A damaged battery can hurt your alternator. The battery provides the power to start your engine, and the alternator recharges the battery as soon as your engine is running. This works perfectly when the battery is healthy. The alternator charges at 100% power for ten minutes and then changes to a steady charging rate of 10% of the battery power. This works perfectly when the battery is healthy.
A damaged battery won’t send a signal to the alternator after ten minutes to confirm that it received the first charge. Without this signal, your alternator will continue to supply maximum power to the battery. Alternators don’t recharge at full capacity as it can cause them to overheat. This problem can usually be seen by the battery light illuminating the dash. We can replace the battery and repair or replace the alternator.
Squealing Noises
The alternator is powered by the movement of the serpentine or alternator belt. This belt connects to the crankshaft and begins to move as soon as your engine is running. The belt moves at high speed across a series of pulleys, which causes them to spin. The belt is made from tough, reinforced rubber but it can become worn due to age or damage.
The belt can jam on a stuck pulley, for example, which produces a squealing noise. Worn belts can also slip out of their groove. Our technicians can replace the pulley or the belt to fix the problem.
If you suspect an alternator problem, call us ASAP at Tri-County Ford in Mabank, TX. Our team of certified Ford technicians will help you with your alternator and any other issues, so you can get back on the road in no time.
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