3 Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Chrysler Dealer

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Your Chrysler has a mini generator called the alternator. The alternator produces all the electrical power for your car’s systems. Like any other component, the alternator will eventually become worn or damaged. When this happens, it’s time to visit your Chrysler dealer for an alternator repair. We’d like you to know a few of the signs that your alternator could be failing.

Illuminated Battery Warning Light

An illuminated battery warning light is a sign that something is wrong with your car’s electrical system. The key component in this system is the alternator, as it must supply the electrical power your car’s systems require. The warning light could also signal other problems like a battery issue, damaged wiring, or blown fuses.

The alternator can trigger this warning light if its electrical output drops below a certain level. A healthy alternator produces approximately 14.5 volts. If the alternator is subject to high electricity demand, it should still supply at least 13 volts. If sensors connected to the alternator register a voltage less than 12.5 volts, the alternator is failing and this will trigger the light. We’ll examine your electrical system to find the problem and then repair it.

Dim and Bright Lights

Your headlights require a stable electricity supply to work effectively. If you switch on the headlights and notice they’re dim, then become overly bright minutes later, you probably have a damaged alternator. The change in brightness is caused by a low electricity supply, and the main reason for this is a failing alternator.

A worn or damaged alternator will produce less electricity than it previously did. As time passes, the electricity supply will drop until the alternator can’t supply enough power for all your car’s systems. When this happens, your car’s computer will shift power from component to component according to demand. Shifting power will cause the light’s brightness to change. We’ll test the alternator and replace it if necessary.

Blown Fuse

All electrical components in your car have a fuse. These fuses work identically to the ones in your home. A fuse’s job is to protect its connected component from damage due to rogue electrical charges. A rogue charge will strike th​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​e fuse first, and the fuse will blow in response. The blown fuse cuts off its connected component from the electrical system but protects the component from damage.

If the alternator fuse blows, the alternator will shut down immediately. When this happens, your car battery will take over and supply power to your car’s systems. This is a very short-term solution, as a standard car battery will drain completely in less than an hour. We will test the fuse and replace it if it’s blown. Once the fuse is replaced, your alternator will work again.

If you think you could have an alternator problem, call us right away at Camp County CDJR.

Tags: Does My Car Need a New Alternator?, How To Know When My Car Needs a New Alternator
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