5 Reasons Your Car Alternator Isn't Charging

The alternator's primary functions are to generate electricity for the vehicle's electrical components as well as to charge the battery. This electrical energy is generated by the alternator by converting mechanical energy. If you tried to start the car without an alternator, the battery would not be able to produce enough power to start the engine.

Even if you had a new vehicle battery and were lucky enough to start the engine, it will only run for about 10 minutes before the power goes out. The alternator is required to recharge the battery and to alternate the electrical current through your vehicle's many components in order to keep them powered.
For further information, speak to your car mechanic next time your car is booked in for a scheduled car service in Reading.

Causes of Alternator Failure to Charge the Battery

Many people become perplexed when their vehicle develops electrical problems. It is easier to misdiagnose these issues, such as a bad battery instead of a bad alternator. To understand the distinction, you must first understand what causes an alternator to stop charging. Then you can inspect the vehicle to determine if the issue is with the alternator. If in any doubt, search online for full car service near me and get a trained technician to resolve the issue for you.

Here are the top five reasons why your alternator isn't charging.

1. Error on the computer

The majority of people drive vehicles manufactured within the last 20 years. All of these newer vehicles have a central computer system, also known as an engine control unit (ECU), which manages and operates the vehicle's components and parts. This computer also controls the alternator. As a result, all it would take is a computer error to cause a malfunctioning alternator, preventing it from charging.

2. Belt or pulley failure 

The belt and pulley generate mechanical power, which the alternator converts into electrical energy. If your serpentine belt, also known as an alternator belt or drive belt, is stretched too far, it can snap apart. The pulley can also become damaged over time. The alternator will no longer be able to charge the battery in either case.

3. Fuse Blown

Specific car models have alternators that rely on a specific fuse to function. These fuses, however, can blow simply due to age or a power surge. When this happens, the alternator will no longer be able to charge the battery. Because not all vehicles have these fuses, you should check your owner's manual to see if yours does. If so, it's worth looking into if your vehicle's battery isn't charging properly by searching for car service near me and get a car mechanic look at it.

4. Problems with the Wiring

There are numerous wiring components in the car that contribute to the alternator's power generation. To turn off the power, simply disconnect or cut one wire. As a result, until the wire is repaired or replaced, the alternator will not charge the battery.

5. Alternator or battery failure 

Alternators and batteries do not last indefinitely, and each has a specific lifespan. The life of a car battery ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on how frequently you drive and the environment in which you live. Batteries typically last longer in colder temperatures and shorter in hotter temperatures. Your car alternators typically last seven years or 80,000 miles, but there are always exceptions.

How to Repair

The most common reason for an alternator failing to charge a battery is that one of them has failed. When the engine is turned off, you can easily measure the voltage by connecting a voltmeter to the battery. The voltage should be between 12 and 13 volts. When the reading is lower, you can assume that there is a battery problem.

Start the vehicle and rev the engine to 2,000 rpm if the battery is good. This will put a lot more strain on the alternator. A voltmeter reading that is decreasing indicates that you have an alternator problem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)

What should I do if my alternator isn't charging?

Checking your interior lights is another simple test. When your car is running, an alternator charges your battery. If the interior and dashboard lights illuminate brightly but gradually fade, it indicates a problem with the alternator.

Is it possible for a faulty alternator to destroy a brand-new battery?

Can a faulty alternator destroy a brand-new battery? Yes, quite easily. A faulty alternator can cause the battery to overcharge, causing it to fail. An undercharging alternator will leave the battery flat, hastening its demise.

Is it possible to jumpstart a car with a faulty alternator?

When you have a faulty alternator, it is obvious that it must be replaced as soon as possible. However, in some cases, a bad alternator can be used to jumpstart a vehicle, allowing you to get it back on the road and drive it to a nearby garage.