Crain Ford Jacksonville

Aug 12, 2021

The alternator plays a key role in your car – it basically helps to convert mechanical energy from the crankshaft into electrical energy to power up your car’s battery, headlights, and other electrical components. Without alternators, cars simply wouldn’t be able to carry on working. That’s why it’s really important to seek alternator repair from your Jacksonville, AR Ford dealer when you notice any of the signs of alternator problems.

6 Signs You May Need Alternator Repair From Your Ford Dealer in Jacksonville, AR

1. Dead Battery

One of the main functions of the alternator is to provide energy for the car battery. It converts the mechanical energy from your car’s crankshaft into electrical energy to power up the battery as you drive around.

However, if the alternator isn’t working the way it should, it won’t be able to charge the battery up, so the battery will gradually lose power and eventually die. When this happens, your car will become totally unresponsive.

2. Electrical Abnormalities

Another issue to watch out for when your car’s alternator is suffering from some kind of problem is electrical abnormalities. Your vehicle may have many different parts that need electrical energy to run. If they don’t get the power they require, they won’t be able to perform at their usual levels.

So you might notice, for example, your heated seats being slow to heat up, your sunroof getting stuck in one position, or the radio becoming slow and unresponsive.

3. Weak or Flickering Headlights

The alternator plays a vital role in keeping your car’s headlights powered up and switched on when you need them. If it isn’t working at 100% of its usual capacities, it may not be able to supply the lights with the power they need. 
This can cause your headlights to flicker, appear less bright than usual, or even turn themselves off without warning.

4. Engine Problems

Have you noticed that your car takes a little longer to get started in the mornings? Or maybe you’ve experienced random, unexpected stalls while driving? If so, there are various possible explanations, and the alternator could be connected to the problems you’re experiencing. 
If the alternator isn’t working, the battery might not have enough power to get the engine started or keep it running consistently.

5. Odd Odors

It’s not very reassuring when you notice a burning smell coming from under the hood of your car. If you notice this sort of smell, or a chemical smell, the alternator could be to blame. When alternators overheat or stop working correctly, certain parts can start to burn up and give off these kinds of unpleasant odors.

6. Strange Sounds

Cars can make all kinds of strange sounds when systems and parts start to fail. If your alternator is broken in some way, you might hear a kind of rattling, whining, or growling sound coming from under the hood.
Spotted any of the signs listed above? If so, don’t delay! Get in touch with a trusted, professional dealer to get the repairs you need right away. Call Crain Ford of Jacksonville to schedule alternator servicing and repair for your Ford.