7812 SE 82nd Ave. Portland, OR 97266 | Monday-Friday 7am-6pm
Saturday by appointment only - pick up & drop off repairs only | (503) 616-5479
8901 NE 117th Ave Vancouver, WA 98662 | Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm | (360) 558-3502
If your alternator isn’t working right, then your battery’s power reserve could become emptied to the extent that your car won’t start. To give yourself the best chance of avoiding this situation, it’s important to get to the shop at the first indication of alternator trouble. At A-1 Automotive, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Portland, OR area. Here are six symptoms of alternator trouble.
Dashboard Warning Light
A malfunctioning alternator can cause a dashboard warning light to turn on. This warning light commonly reads GEN or ALT, but in some cars it illuminates in the form of a battery symbol. Anytime a warning light comes on, it’s important to figure out what exactly is triggering it.
Dead Battery
When you install a new battery in your car, it should work reliably for at least three years, if not significantly longer. If your battery dies sooner than this timeframe and not for an obvious reason like forgetting to turn off your headlights, then you could be dealing with alternator trouble.
Malfunctioning Electrical Accessories
Modern vehicles are commonly equipped with computers that determine which electrical accessories should first have their power reduced when a faulty alternator is detected. This saves power for the vehicle’s most essential electrical needs, but may cause issues with certain accessories such as power seats/windows.
Issues with Headlights
Alternator trouble can cause headlights to start dimming or flickering, which could create a serious safety hazard if you have to drive at night on roads that aren’t lit up by street lamps.
Stalling
When the alternator isn’t working properly, spark plugs may not receive adequate power. This could cause your vehicle to then stall out.
Problem with Belt
If you suspect that your car may be experiencing alternator trouble, then it’s worth popping the hood and taking a quick look. If you see that a belt is cracking or poorly fitting, then you may have found the source of your alternator issue.
Alternator & Auto Electric Repair in Portland, OR
When you need auto repair in Portland, OR or Vancouver, WA, visit A-1 Automotive. At our local auto shop, our reputable mechanics can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!