A failing alternator can cut off the electrical supply to your Nissan. It will also cause your battery to fail, as the battery will have to take over and supply your car’s electrical demands. A car battery isn’t designed to supply all your car’s electrical needs, and it will also quickly fail. To prevent this situation, when you need an alternator repair, your friendly Nissan dealer in Wallingford, CT, can help you out!
Check Battery Light
Your dash has a battery-shaped icon that represents your car’s electrical system. This light will come on if there’s a problem with any part of your car’s electrical system, including the battery and the alternator. Your car has numerous sensors, each of which is attached to a specific component. The sensors are very sensitive and can detect minute changes in their attached component.
When a problem is identified by a sensor, the battery warning light will come on. A worn alternator can trigger this light when its power output drops. An alternator produces approximately 14.5 volts, which is more than sufficient to supply your car’s electrical needs. When the power output drops below 13 volts, the alternator is failing.
Screeching Noises from the Engine
The alternator is powered by the alternator belt. This belt is connected to the crankshaft, and the turning of the crankshaft causes this belt to move at high speed. The belt runs across a series of pulleys, and this activates the components connected to them. The alternator belt is made from reinforced rubber, and it’s designed to last for a long time.
We test the belt as part of your service schedule to ensure that it’s in good condition and that it’s tensioned correctly. The constant movement of the belt can lead to its loosening slightly. A pulley could also jam, and this may cause the belt to run slightly off track. A screeching sound means the belt is jamming on something as it moves. We will check the condition of your belt and the pulleys.
Slow Accessories
Your Nissan has numerous accessories which draw their power from the alternator. A healthy alternator can easily supply all your car’s power demands, but when the alternator starts to fail this causes a problem. Gradually, a weakening alternator will supply less and less power. The lack of sufficient power will start to cause strange behavior in your electrical system.
A car window, for example, may suddenly open and close very slowly, or the radio may fail to switch on. These are some of the possible signs that your alternator isn’t generating enough power. Our technicians will test your alternator, and we can replace it if it’s failing.
An alternator always gives signs that it has a problem. If you experience any strange electrical behavior, call our service department right away at Barberino Nissan. We can diagnose and repair the problem, and you’ll be on the road again in no time!
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