Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Chrysler Dealer

​​​​​​​​Your Chrysler alternator is robust and has an average lifespan of eight years. Like any other engine component, though, it will eventually suffer wear or damage and must be repaired or replaced by your Chrysler dealer. We’d like you to know a few signs that you may need to visit us for an alternator repair.

Damaged Bearings

The alternator generates electricity by spinning. The crankshaft’s movement causes the alternator belt to run at speed across a series of pulleys. One of these pulleys is connected to the alternator. The belt’s movement causes the alternator pulley to spin, which powers the alternator and allows it to generate electricity.

Two bearings enable the alternator to spin at high speed. These bearings are subject to wear and tear due to the friction generated by their movement. Over time, a bearing can become pitted or break. If this happens, you’ll hear clunking noises as the alternator tries to move on a damaged bearing. We’ll examine the bearing and replace it to fix this problem.

Your Alternator is Old

An alternator is designed to operate at high speed for long periods. The alternator begins working as soon as the combustion process begins. It continues to run until your engine is switched off. As the alternator gets older, worn and damaged parts will cause it to slow down its electricity production. This process happens gradually, so it’s unlikely to be noticed immediately.

As time passes, the electricity shortfall will become noticeable. The battery warning light on your dash will illuminate, as a warning that the alternator’s power generation has dropped below the minimum level required. Your dash lights, cabin lights, and headlights will also be dimmer than they should be. If the alternator is not replaced, the lack of power will prevent your car from starting. Our technicians can quickly install a new battery, and the power supply will return to normal.

Burning Smells

As we’ve seen, the alternator generates power by spinning. When the alternator becomes older and can’t supply enough power, sensors will inform your car’s computer of the problem. The computer will log the information and order the alternator to supply more power. In response, the alternator will attempt to spin faster to generate additional electricity.

As a worn or damaged alternator spins faster, it will start to overheat. When this happens, you’ll smell a hot metal odor from the engine. You might also smell burning insulation from damaged wiring inside the alternator. We’ll examine your alternator to confirm the source of the problem, then we’ll install a new alternator and the burning smells will disappear.

Your alternator will always show signs that it’s failing. If you suspect you have an alternator problem, call our service department right away at Huston CDJR.

Image via Pixabay

Tags: Alternator Repair
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