Alternator Service

Car Alternator

We Can Inspect or Replace Your Car's Alternator at Harry Brown’s

As you drive your vehicle, you’re going to need a pretty significant amount of electricity to power your lights, the tech inside your cabin, and more. While your car might store all that electricity in your battery, it actually gets its power from your alternator. This part’s job is to charge your battery as you drive so that you always have a steady supply of electricity, so when it stops working, your car might die over and over again. If you need a quick repair, you can stop by Harry Brown’s today.

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Why Is My Car Constantly Dying?

Since your alternator and your battery are linked together, you might be tempted to blame your battery when something goes wrong. While batteries can eventually run into issues when they’re corroded or old, they rely on your alternator for a fresh supply of electricity. If you want to figure out which part is the culprit, and you’re near Northfield, Faribault, or Mankato, then you can visit us at Harry Brown’s for an inspection.

  • What’s Wrong With My Battery?: You swear you didn’t leave anything on in your cabin, and yet your battery is somehow dead again. If this happens, then you should have your battery tested by a professional. If it’s still healthy, then your alternator is likely the problem. If your alternator breaks down, then your battery isn’t going to charge as you drive. This means that by the time you reach your next destination, your battery might not have enough power to restart your vehicle.

How Do I Know If My Alternator Is the Problem?

If you’re not a mechanic, then you might not be sure how you’re supposed to know when your alternator is having trouble. Generally, you should notice one or more of the signs below.

  • Dim Headlights: This is the tell-tale sign of a bad alternator. If your headlights and cabin lights look like they’re dim, then they might not be getting enough power. If they seem to light up when you step on the accelerator, then it’s almost surely your alternator.
  • Is Something Burning?: When you start your vehicle, does it smell like something is burning? Your alternator relies on other parts like your serpentine belt to function. If that belt is burning up, then it could be what’s causing your problem.
  • Listen for Strange Sounds: If you hear squealing, grinding, or growling, then this could be due to your belt or your alternator’s bearings.
  • Check Your Dashboard: If your dashboard is showing your battery light, then this is usually the first sign that something isn’t right.

Where Can I Fix My Alternator?

Electrical problems can be frustrating to deal with, but we can help you solve them today at Harry Brown’s.

  • Fixing Your Electrical System: Your electrical system is one of the most complicated systems in your vehicle. While it might be easy to handle something like your oil change on your own, you’ll want to leave this system to the professionals.
  • Make Your Vehicle Reliable Again: When your alternator is damaged, your car might leave you stranded in a random parking lot. If you want your car to reliably start again, then you’ll need a repair.

If your vehicle is constantly dying, then it’s time to have your alternator and battery inspected. You can schedule your service online before you stop by Harry Brown’s.