The alternator in your car keeps your battery charged and supplies power to your electrical system. It does this by converting mechanical energy generated by your car’s movement into electrical energy. Without an alternator, the battery would go dead and the electrical system wouldn’t work. Alternators have a fairly long lifespan, but they will wear out. As your Chevy dealer in St. Louis, MO, we can help you when you need an alternator repair. 
How to Tell When Your Chevy Needs an Alternator Repair by Your Chevy Dealer in St. Louis, MO
Check Engine Light Stays On
This light should go on when you start your car and then switch off. If the light stays on, it is a warning that something is wrong with your engine. There is not necessarily a fault with your alternator, but it is one of the components we will check. The warning code displayed will reveal the problem, and then we will fix it.
Dead Battery
The battery provides power to start the engine and it has an average lifespan of 3-5 years, after which it should be replaced. If your battery is fairly new and it dies, one potential reason is that the alternator is weakening and is no longer charging it.
Electrical Glitches
A dying alternator tries and fails to supply enough electrical power to the system. Strange electrical glitches can appear, for example, windshield wipers may become sluggish or the power windows can stick in the open or closed position. These problems appear randomly, but they will become more frequent and more serious as the alternator fails.
Electrical Cable Problems
Electrical cables snake through the engine compartment to connect the electrical system. If these cables are damaged, they may not be able to effectively transmit power. The alternator can be working correctly but as it tries to force more electricity through the damaged wires, they will heat up. If you smell burning wiring, contact our service department.
Unusual Noises
Every driver is familiar with their car’s sounds, but if you hear strange sounds from the engine this can mean that your alternator is starting to wear out. A knocking sound in the engine, for example, could be the sound of a loose alternator belt hitting other components when your car moves. Bearings on the alternator pulley can also wear out and start to make grinding noises.
Starting Problems
The battery provides the power to start the ignitor, but if your alternator is failing it may not be able to fully recharge your battery. The battery will drain, and may no longer have enough power to easily start your car. A delay in starting could be the result of a damaged alternator, a weak battery, or even an ignition problem.
If you suspect your alternator is failing, call our service department at Bommarito Chevrolet South County. Our expert technicians will be happy to examine your alternator, and if it needs to be replaced we will fit a new OEM one for you.
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