With a bad alternator, your battery’s power reserve is liable to run dry, which could leave you unable to start your car and in need of assistance. To avoid finding yourself in such a situation, you’ll want to get to the shop when first notice evidence of an alternator problem. At Integrity Auto Care, our local mechanics are experts at alternator and auto electric repair in the greater Belvidere, IL area.

Common Symptoms of Alternator Trouble

In many instances, the first indication of alternator trouble is an illuminated dashboard warning light that reads ALT or GEN or flashes on in the form of a little battery icon. Whenever a warning light comes on, it’s important to promptly figure out what is triggering it. Otherwise, the underlying problem could soon worsen and become more expensive to fix.

An alternator problem can also cause issues with the car’s electrical accessories. Today’s vehicles regularly have computers that are programmed to reduce the power supply to certain electrical accessories when the alternator is malfunctioning. This conserves power for the vehicle’s most pressing electrical needs, but may cause issues such as power windows rolling up/down slowly or power seats taking longer to adjust to your commands. Also, a faulty alternator can cause headlights to start dimming or flickering.

Alternator trouble can also lead to a dead battery. But just because your battery has died, doesn’t mean you should automatically blame your alternator. Various other issues can cause a car battery to die, such as loose/corroded connections, old age, parasitic draws, and forgetting to turn off headlights. But if there’s not another clear-cut reason for your dead battery, then it’s worth investigating your alternator.

Alternator and Auto Electric Repair in Belvidere, IL

When you need auto repair in Belvidere and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at (815) 566-8357. At our local auto shop, we can expertly complete any of your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!