Hi Duke here today. Today it is about POWER! We all love power, and when it comes to your vehicle, the engine is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a power plant. But it has another power source that is vital as well: the alternator.
The alternator generates the electricity that powers your lights, power windows, sound system, and navigation. Maybe you've started seeing those electrical components behaving in strange ways. Maybe your power windows are going up and down a little bit more slowly than they used to. Or perhaps your engine doesn't start as easily or is misfiring.
Other signs of a failing alternator are headlights that are either brighter or dimmer than usual. If your battery keeps going dead, it could be that the alternator isn't recharging it.
The alternator has to get its power from somewhere, and in vehicles with internal combustion engines, that power comes from a drive belt powered by the engine. Sometimes that belt can fail. If you hear a whining sound, it could mean the alternator bearings aren't turning as freely as they used to. You could even notice a burning smell. Oh, and when you see your battery light illuminated on your dashboard (it looks like a rectangle with a - and + inside), it may be warning you that your alternator is not healthy.
Bring your vehicle in to us for a diagnosis if you notice any of these symptoms. If your alternator is bad, we can recommend a new or remanufactured one to replace it. Some new alternators are warranted for life and remanufactured units usually are guaranteed as well.
It's important to your vehicle's health to have its alternator consistently output the right amount of power. It may not be as well-known as the other power plant under the hood, but it's a vital part of helping your vehicle run the way it is designed to.
I leave you with a powerful joke,
Did you hear what the foolish gardener did? The guy planted a light bulb and thought he’d get a power plant.
Duke
Allied Auto Works
2073 Grant Road
Los Altos, CA 94024
6509687227
http://alliedautoworks.com