Why does my alternator keep going bad?
Alternators put out alternating current, and the battery needs direct current to charge, so there is a voltage rectifier that converts it, and it can suddenly go bad, too. Dust and dirt can get into the alternator, and over time cause shorts or wear on the brushes.
Can an alternator go bad in 2 years?
Alternators can typically last a long time, about seven years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles. There are a few issues that could make the alternator go bad, such as jump-starting the car the wrong way or installing an accessory that overloads it.
How often does an alternator need to be replaced?
So, your alternator works every day, from the moment you start up your car until you turn it off. And if your alternator is failing, you will need to replace it. Many factors can affect the life of your alternator, so it is difficult to say how long you can expect it to last.
How can you tell the life of an alternator?
First, you’ll want to test your battery, then inspect the serpentine belt, inspect the alternator pulley, and inspect the serpentine belt tensioner. If all of those are clear, then check the alternator by testing the battery voltage using a multimeter.
What does it mean when your alternator is not working?
That means no starting, no running, no driving. When your alternator is working and doing its job properly, your battery stays charged, your spark plugs have plenty of spark, and all of your vehicles accessories run without issues.
Can a manual tensioner be used to replace an alternator?
The belt tensioner will only travel (swing) so far which can make installing the belt difficult. Never pry or force the belt onto the pulley. Vehicles with a manual tensioner or the belt tightens with the alternator, there should about ½ inch of deflection in the belt between the pulleys with the greatest distance between them. 7