Alternators have become more essential over time due to the increased demand for electrical power in modern cars. The alternator generates the electricity that keeps all of the systems working efficiently. A failing alternator will cause problems for your Ford, ranging from dim lights to a dead battery. When you need an alternator repair, your Ford dealer can fix it for you. We want you to know some signs that your alternator may be failing.
Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Ford Dealer
Broken Rectifier
An alternator creates electricity through a complex process. It’s powered by the turning crankshaft, and this mechanical energy causes the alternator to spin. As the magnets at the center of the alternator spin, they turn this energy into magnetic energy. This energy is then captured by the stator and converted to AC. This power has one more step in conversion, as your car requires DC.
The rectifier is a component in the alternator that converts AC from the stator into DC. If your rectifier fails, this power conversion won’t happen. The alternator will produce AC which is wasted. With DC, your car’s systems will shut down immediately. Our technicians can easily test the rectifier and install a new one if it’s failed.
Damaged Battery
A damaged battery can drain an alternator and cause it to fail. This occurs because the battery depends on the alternator to recharge it. When your engine starts, the alternator spins to produce electricity and recharge the battery. The alternator doesn’t recharge the battery at full power for very long, as this level of charging can damage the alternator.
The alternator will receive a signal from the battery that the first charge is received, and the alternator will switch to charging at 10% of battery capacity. This level of charging is fully sustainable. A damaged battery won’t transmit the charging confirmation, and the alternator will continue to try and charge it at full power. We’ll replace the damaged battery to fix the first problem and test your alternator. If your alternator has been damaged, we can replace it.
Battery Warning Light
Your car has a wide variety of sensors inside it. Each sensor is attached to an essential component, and the sensor’s job is to monitor the component’s performance. The sensors all connect to your car’s computer. Any problem detected by the sensors will be relayed to your car’s computer, which activates the light.
A worn alternator will trigger this light if it drops below 12 volts. The low voltage means it can no longer supply all your car’s electrical needs. We’ll check the error code on your computer with our diagnostic system and then repair the problem.
A failing alternator always shows signs that it’s in trouble. If something feels wrong, call us ASAP at Nashville Ford.
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