Village Diesel Works can replace the alternator in your diesel truck when it goes bad. On average, the alternator lasts seven to 10 years or 100,000 miles to 150,000 miles. Below, are signs that your alternator is going bad. Bring your diesel truck to our shop at the first indication of trouble.
Accessory Malfunction
If your power accessories start to malfunction, this is a sign that the alternator is not sending enough power to them. This can also cause certain power accessories, such as your power windows and seats, to slow down. Strange things can also happen such as your radio turning off by itself.
Battery Warning Light
This may be accompanied by a battery dashboard warning light if the alternator is malfunctioning. In modern diesel trucks, the light is usually shaped like a battery. If you drive an older diesel truck, the light may read ALT or GEN. This dashboard warning is letting you know there’s a problem with the alternator.
Burning Electricity
You may also smell burning electricity coming from the engine if the alternator is malfunctioning and generating too many volts. The maximum voltage and alternator should generate is 14.5 volts. A faulty alternator can overexert itself and generate more voltage.
Growling Engine Noises
If the alternator is wearing down on the inside, you will hear growling noises in the engine. It’s always important to bring your diesel truck to our shop right away if the engine is making any strange noise. In this case, the growling that you hear is being caused by the alternator.
Hard Starts/Dead Battery
It can be difficult to start your diesel truck if the alternator is going bad. You may find that the truck cranks several times before firing up or doesn’t fire up at all. If the alternator is unable to keep the battery charged because it is malfunctioning, the battery will die.
Vehicle Light Problems
Finally, you will have problems with your diesel truck’s lights if the alternator is having problems generating the correct amount of electricity. For example, if the alternator is producing too much voltage, the lights will be brighter than normal. If the alternator is not producing enough voltage, the lights will be dimmer than normal. They may also flicker between bright and dim.
Village Diesel Works in Woodbury, MN, is here to help, so call us today if your diesel truck is having any of the problems listed above. We will replace the alternator if it has gone bad.