Without getting overly technical, a car’s battery and alternator work together to start it up, run its electronics, and be able to restart with ease. But how does the battery and the alternator even work, and how come each is equally vital?
It all starts with a turn of the ignition key or a push of the Start Button. This prompts the battery to produce a surge of power for the starter motor. Next, the starter motor cranks the engine and the alternator, mounted to the engine is spun by a belt . This is where the alternator takes over the operation, providing power for various vehicle accessories, as well as charging the battery so it can begin the startup sequence.
But what if one or both components were to fail? Would you know ahead of time?
If you do, then good for you. But what if you’re caught off guard or don’t know how to spot the signs your vehicle is telling you about its battery and alternator problems, then this quick read may help you to keep tabs on your vehicle’s condition or explain more in detail to a professional mechanic about the issue.
Signs of a battery problem
Battery Indicator – in modern vehicles, this usually lights lights up if the battery is not receiving sufficient current to charge or battery not charging. Either way, it’s an indicator of one or the other
Corrosion – Try to find time and open the hood to check on the battery. If you see spots of corrosion on the battery, you may want to clean or seek professional help. To determine whether corrosion is indeed the only problem, start the car by using jumper cables connected to another car battery. If it runs and idles well, but won’t restart, it could show signs of the battery failing to maintain enough charge from the alternator.
Accessories won’t work properly – Turn the key/push the button to Accessory On Mode. This is where most or all of the car’s onboard accessories can be used such as the radio, wipers, lights, fans, among others. Check whether the accessories work as they should – radio producing clear sound, lights brightening or dimming properly, fans running, and more. If these accessories falter or flicker, then it could be a sign that the battery is having problems or is near its end.
Unusually dim lights on the dash and instrument panel – This is an often overlooked sign, since people see these lights every day. But make it a habit to often keep a close eye out for dimmer than usual lights on the dashboard or instrument cluster, especially in Accessory On mode. This could tell that a battery is having an issue.
Car starts then shuts off right away – This issue can have several causes, but the battery is a good place to begin. In some vehicles, this happens when the battery has just enough power to start the engine, but not enough to keep it running.
Bloated battery – As with many or all gadgets that use batteries, your car battery also bloats over time or due to overcharging from a faulty alternator or voltage regulator. If you do a visual and tactile check, and notice the battery bulging out, it’s a sign for it to be replaced. Do not prolong the use of bloated batteries to avoid further complications.
Old battery – When was the last time you had your battery replaced? Maybe out of habit, or limited choices due to circumstances, many people tend to not keep records of their last car battery replacement. On average, a car battery’s lifespan or good operational period lasts for 3-5 years. Realistically, you may often see no issues with a 3-5 year old battery, but it’s a wise habit to follow manufacturer instructions and keep a record of the previous battery replacement date. This is to prevent would-be issues or damage caused by a battery giving in past its life.
Now that you have an idea of how to spot potential battery problems, you also need to know how to look for probable issues with the alternator.
Signs of potential alternator issues
Alternator testing – If you know how to perform regular alternator testing, then it’s good for you. But be careful, though. To be safe, seek professional help. This way, you would also determine probable battery issues, altogether.
Weird grunting or growling noises – This happens when an unusual growling or grunting noise is heard when starting up and running the engine. One good thing for you to know is that this occurs ahead of potential alternator failure, so this is like an early warning to take action.
Unpleasant smell of burnt wires or rubber components – This mostly happens when the alternator is not working properly and is frequently overheating.
Dim interior lights – Similar to determining battery issues, interior lights getting unusually dimmer can also spell alternator issues. In relation to this, also observe sudden dimming or brightening of the headlights upon acceleration and deceleration.
Keeping an eye out for signs of battery and alternator failure is a good habit, not only to prolong your car’s lifespan, but also improve its working condition. Most importantly, keeping on top of your car’s overall condition, not just the battery and the alternator, can save you or your loved ones from untoward incidents caused by undetected or neglected mechanical failures.
