Having alternator issues can be one of the most frustrating things that you can have happen to your car. It’s one of those parts that can cause havoc on all the other systems in the car.
The alternator is a device that converts the energy that comes from your engine and turns it into electricity that charges your battery. And you car battery runs the electrical system in your car. Not just a few electrical things, the entire system. It doesn’t just affect starting the ignition, although we all know how important that component is.
That includes your headlights, dashboard lights, interior lights, trunk light, radio, your air system’s fan and other electrical devices in your car. As you can see, without the alternator or battery, you’re without much of what runs your car.
Causes of Alternator Problems
A number of things can cause problems with your alternator. It could be a short in your electrical circuits that is causing you battery to drain, even when the car isn’t running. If that happens, the alternator has to work overtime to recharge your battery, and it’s not designed to constantly have to do that.
Another thing that might cause a problem is your car computer system. There is a ‘smart’ system in your car that tells your alternator when to charge and when to stop charging the battery. If the computer gives wrong commands to the alternator, it can cause it to overwork or not work hard enough.
How to Fix Alternator Malfunctions
A great way to test any electrical system in the car is to have a multimeter like the Fluke 87-5, which can tell you if your car battery is having voltage issues.
You car battery should have at least 13 volts on it when it is fully charged. If it gets much lower, your car won’t start. Most cars won’t start if the battery goes lower than say 11.5 volts. By the way, the standard car battery is 13 volts. The reason why they call them 12 volt batteries is because mechanics are superstitious and don’t like the number 13. At least that is what I’ve been told.
Another thing that might be handy if you’re having alternator problems is a car jump starter. It’s basically a portable device that will jump your battery without the need for another vehicle.
