What happens if I disconnect the alternator?
Hear this out loudPauseIf your alternator is malfunctioning by over-charging your battery, disconnecting it may allow the alternator to provide an even higher voltage to the car electronics, and potentially damage those sensitive components.
How far can you drive without alternator?
Hear this out loudPauseIf the alternator output was weak for a long time before it failed, the car may not go very far. If you have a fully charged high capacity battery, you could drive a hundred miles at least in the day-time, on the battery alone.
What should I do if my alternator is not working?
Even if you conclude the alternator is not working, the problem may originate elsewhere. You may have a blown fuse, a bad relay, wiring, or a defective voltage regulator, for example. Thanks! Some people recommend testing the alternator by starting the car, loosening the negative battery cable, and waiting to see whether or not the engine dies.
What kind of noise does a bad alternator make?
But what sound does a bad alternator make? Depending on what part of the alternator is going bad first, you may experience any of the following noises. Alternator Whining Noise. A common sound made by failing alternators is a very high pitched whining noise that you’ll hear when the engine is running.
Can a bad alternator kill a new battery?
The same situation could happen again with a new battery, if you miss signs of a failing alternator. Many people, even professionals, are quick to assume the battery is bad, but this can be a costly assumption if your failing alternator kills your newly replaced battery, too.
How can I tell if my alternator is in good shape?
Make sure the voltmeter reads at least 12.2 volts, then start your car and rev the engine to 2,000 RPM. Keep the engine running and check the voltmeter again. If the voltage is between 13 and 14.5 volts, your alternator is in good shape.
In this case, everything with your car’s alternator seems to check out OK — no belt issues or other visible signs of trouble — but the car’s battery is dead, as is most of the car’s electrical equipment.
Is it a case of your alternator being possessed?
Is this a case of your auto being possessed? No. Most likely it’s one of many possible alternator problems, and without some attention, the alternator can cause car trouble ranging from slow starts all the way up to a dead car.
The same situation could happen again with a new battery, if you miss signs of a failing alternator. Many people, even professionals, are quick to assume the battery is bad, but this can be a costly assumption if your failing alternator kills your newly replaced battery, too.
How to diagnose a dead battery or an alternator?
Diagnosing a dead battery versus a dead alternator is relatively easy. Simply jump-start your car and then remove the jumper cables as quickly as possible. Then wait. If the alternator is failing to charge the system, the car will soon die again and you’ve pinpointed the problem.