The alternator is one of the hardest-working part under the bonnet, It produces a constant current then transfers that current to the battery. This then powers all electrical features of your car while your alternator makes sure the battery charged.
If you have ever turned the key in your car's ignition and heard a clicking noise, you'll already be familiar with the sound of a dying alternator. The noise indicates the component needs to be replaced if everything was off and the batery is in good condition.
So what can can shorten the life of an alternator:
Slow Deterioration Over Miles
One of the most common reasons an alternator fails is because it was built poorly in the first place. New components are rarely an issue. You can expect them to last up to 100,000 miles.
Another reason this component can fail is due to normal wear and tear. Over time, the diodes can wear down, the stator windings may become ineffective, or the needle bearing on which the part's rotor spins can deteriorate. The wear and tear suffered by the alternator may be accelerated by other circumstances. For example, extreme heat generated by the engine can slowly take a toll; the battery may lose its charge, taxing the component more than normal; dirt may get into the unit. It's often difficult to know these things are occurring, especially because they happen gradually. However, you can - and should - periodically test the component to make sure it is in good condition.
Testing And Maintaining
In order to test the alternator, you'll need to purchase a voltmeter. They normally cost less than £15-30 and can be found at most auto supply stores, this device tests output level. To use it, turn your car's engine over and allow it to idle for a minute, ensure everthing like a radio, heating e.t.c is off.
Then connect the voltmeter's positive and negative connections to the positive and negative posts on your battery. The device should display a reading between 13.8 and 15.3 volts. Next, turn on your headlights and look at the reading again; turn on your radio and take another look; turn your vehicle's heater on. The voltmeter's reading should never dip below 12 volts. If it does, there's a good chance your alternator is faulty or failing. In both cases, you need to replace it.
If you have ever turned the key in your car's ignition and heard a clicking noise, you'll already be familiar with the sound of a dying alternator. The noise indicates the component needs to be replaced if everything was off and the batery is in good condition.
So what can can shorten the life of an alternator:
Slow Deterioration Over Miles
One of the most common reasons an alternator fails is because it was built poorly in the first place. New components are rarely an issue. You can expect them to last up to 100,000 miles.
Another reason this component can fail is due to normal wear and tear. Over time, the diodes can wear down, the stator windings may become ineffective, or the needle bearing on which the part's rotor spins can deteriorate. The wear and tear suffered by the alternator may be accelerated by other circumstances. For example, extreme heat generated by the engine can slowly take a toll; the battery may lose its charge, taxing the component more than normal; dirt may get into the unit. It's often difficult to know these things are occurring, especially because they happen gradually. However, you can - and should - periodically test the component to make sure it is in good condition.
Testing And Maintaining
In order to test the alternator, you'll need to purchase a voltmeter. They normally cost less than £15-30 and can be found at most auto supply stores, this device tests output level. To use it, turn your car's engine over and allow it to idle for a minute, ensure everthing like a radio, heating e.t.c is off.
Then connect the voltmeter's positive and negative connections to the positive and negative posts on your battery. The device should display a reading between 13.8 and 15.3 volts. Next, turn on your headlights and look at the reading again; turn on your radio and take another look; turn your vehicle's heater on. The voltmeter's reading should never dip below 12 volts. If it does, there's a good chance your alternator is faulty or failing. In both cases, you need to replace it.
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