Diyvehiclerepair
Most of the time, alternators fail as a result of age or use. However, some other factors can cause an alternator to fail prematurely. Fluid leaking on the car alternator can commonly lead to failure. Often, engine oil or power steering fluid can work its way into the alternator and cause it to malfunction or fail.
- What causes an alternator to go bad quickly?
- How often do alternators go bad?
- Do alternators go bad suddenly?
- Can you start a car with a bad alternator?
- What is the average lifespan of a car alternator?
- How much does it cost to fix the alternator?
- What kills an alternator?
- Is it worth replacing an alternator?
- Will a bad alternator drain a battery?
- How do you tell if it's your battery or alternator?
- What happens when alternator goes bad while driving?
- What shortens the life of an alternator?
- How long does it take for a bad alternator to drain a battery?
- What kind of noise does a bad alternator make?
What causes an alternator to go bad quickly?
There are a few issues that could make the alternator go bad, such as jump-starting the car the wrong way or installing an accessory that overloads it. Leaking fluid in the alternator or a tight belt can also cause damage to the alternator bearings, causing premature wearing.
How often do alternators go bad?
An alternator typically lasts about seven years or about 100,000 to 150,000 miles. Some mechanics, though, say they typically see alternators last about 80,000 miles, or some cars will need it to be replaced after 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
Do alternators go bad suddenly?
When your alternator begins to fail it can cause a variety of different electrical problems in your car, and eventually cause a breakdown. Alternators can go bad suddenly, or slowly over time.
Can you start a car with a bad alternator?
You actually can jumpstart a car with a bad alternator, and the car will keep running for some time, no matter how bad the alternator is, well, considering you have a good battery. ... The point of jumpstarting is to get a flat battery running, so if you're jumpstarting, chances are, your battery has gone pretty low.
What is the average lifespan of a car alternator?
The average longevity of an alternator is seven years or about 150,000 miles. Several factors can impact the lifespan of your alternator, including the quality of the part, the overall condition of the vehicle, and how many electronics are being used.
How much does it cost to fix the alternator?
If only the starter is broken, the replacement cost is typically minimal. How much does an alternator cost depends on the type of vehicle. In some models, they can run as low as $180 and for premium vehicles, they can run over $1,000. The average cost is approximately $500.
What kills an alternator?
Running in full charge mode continuously can kill an alternator, so trying to have your new alternator try and charge your dead battery can result in immediate alternator failure.
Is it worth replacing an alternator?
It's usually a better idea to replace the alternator entirely if it is malfunctioning. While new ones can be spendy, they are usually a better choice than remanufactured or rebuilt options. Those probably won't last as long as a new one since the mechanical parts have miles on them already.
Will a bad alternator drain a battery?
A corroded or defective alternator diode will faultily continue charging the circuit even when the car off. This, in turn, will drain your car battery and cause the car not to start.
How do you tell if it's your battery or alternator?
If your engine won't turn over or takes far longer than usual, it's time to grab the jumper cables and attempt a jump-start. If your engine starts and stays running but won't start again later, it's likely a battery problem. If your vehicle immediately stalls, it's probably a bad alternator.
What happens when alternator goes bad while driving?
A bad alternator will result in a discharged (dead) battery and cause a vehicle to not start or run. Alternators are designed to maintain a battery's charge, not to recharge a dead battery. ... Draining your car's battery is not advised. Having it happen once won't kill you.
What shortens the life of an alternator?
An alternator that's not big enough to meet electrical demand will be overloaded and made to work beyond its capability; ultimately resulting in its premature failure. Something else to consider: If a vehicle's full load prevents the alternator from keeping a full charge on the battery, then: Battery life goes down.
How long does it take for a bad alternator to drain a battery?
In this situation, the battery could last as little as 30 minutes. If you are lucky and could get up to two hours. Note: In case you have to start the car without an alternator, don't turn off the engine once you're going. Starting the car flattens the battery down quickly.
What kind of noise does a bad alternator make?
A common sound made by failing alternators is a very high pitched whining noise that you'll hear when the engine is running. When the RMPs increase, such as when you accelerate, you'll hear the noise get higher in pitch as the pulley spins faster.
