If you’re experiencing issues starting your vehicle or keeping it running, it could be due to an issue in the electrical system such as a dead battery or a weak alternator. Oftentimes these problems will exhibit similar symptoms despite being very different components.
In this article, we’ll go over the symptoms of a faulty battery and faulty alternator, how these issues may occur, and how to tell which of these components may be your culprit.
What Does The Battery Do?
The battery in your vehicle’s electrical system is responsible for providing the initial charge needed to start the vehicle. When turning the key, the battery will send electricity to crucial components such as the ignition coils and starter motor.
Although car batteries are able to deliver some serious power for startup, they can’t keep the vehicle running for very long by themselves. This is where your vehicle’s alternator comes into play.
What Does The Alternator Do?
Following the initial startup of the vehicle, the alternator takes over from there, providing each of the electricity dependent systems in your vehicle with the charge they need to keep them operating in harmony.
The alternator is generally driven off a belt connected to the engine to produce its power, known as the accessory belt. Alternators essentially act as mini generators for our vehicles, converting mechanical energy into usable electrical energy.
Bad Battery or Bad Alternator?
Experiencing issues with either of these components can throw a wrench in your daily life, potentially preventing you from driving your vehicle or even leaving you stranded on your drive. While it may seem difficult to pinpoint which of these is your culprit, there are a few specific symptoms to look out for that could let you know where your issue has originated.
Symptoms of a Dead/Faulty Battery
Automotive batteries are durable components, generally lasting between 3-5 years. However, once you push it past that timeframe, there’s a good chance the battery will begin to die. Here are some of the common symptoms seen with a bad battery.
- Rapid click when trying to start vehicle
- Illuminated battery warning light
- Slow cranking
- Odd smell from battery (often a sign of a leak in the battery casing)
Symptoms of Faulty Alternator
Alternators don’t need to be replaced like batteries, as they’re dependable components designed to last as long as possible. However, like any part of your vehicle, they’ll still experience problems or failure at a certain point. This can occur due to reasons such as internal failure, wiring issues, a bad pulley, or a slipped accessory belt. Symptoms of a bad alternator often include:
- Dim or flickering lights
- Illuminated battery warning light
- Malfunctioning interior accessories
- Smell of burning rubber
- Whining or grinding sounds from engine bay
Electrical System Service & Repair In Arvada, Colorado
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to the electrical service experts at Arvada Square Auto in Arvada, Colorado! Our team has extensive experience in providing battery and alternator service on a wide variety of vehicles. Give us a call or schedule online today to secure your appointment with Arvada’s premier electrical service and repair facility.