Your Subaru has numerous systems that require electricity, and the alternator’s job is to produce this electricity. If the alternator is damaged or broken, your car will rapidly develop problems. These are a few of the signs that it’s time to visit your Subaru dealer for an alternator repair.
Squealing or Screeching Noises
Weird noises from under the hood are always a sign of trouble and need to be examined ASAP. One of the most likely causes of squealing or screeching noises is a damaged alternator belt. The belt connects to the crankshaft, and as the crankshaft turns, it causes the belt to run across a series of pulleys. One of these pulleys powers the alternator.
An alternator belt is made from reinforced rubber, but it can get damaged over time. The belt is subject to constant friction as it moves at speed across the pulleys. It can also become damaged if it has to move at speed over a jammed pulley. If your alternator belt is worn, you’ll hear screeching or squealing as the belt moves. We can check the belt for you and repair or replace it depending on its condition.
Dead Battery
On average, your battery will last three to five years before it requires replacement. Your battery can fail due to age, and can also fail if it isn’t receiving enough power from the alternator. A battery can’t produce electricity, it merely stores it. As you drive, the alternator will begin the recharging process to ensure the battery is always fully charged.
If your alternator is damaged or too old, it may not produce sufficient electricity. Your battery will gradually become weaker as it supplies more power than it receives. The damaged alternator will eventually cause your battery to fail. We can test your battery, and we’ll also examine the alternator and electrical charging system. Once we’ve identified the exact cause of the problem, we’ll repair it.
Burning Plastic Smell
The power generated by your alternator must be supplied to all the systems and devices that require it. Your Subaru has a vast network of wires and cables that connect every system to the alternator. Electrical wiring is delicate and has to be protected against movement and damage. All the wiring in your car is protected by thick plastic and rubber insulation.
Wires can break as they age, and a broken wire will still receive electricity. As electricity flows into a broken wire, the wire will heat up, and this can cause its insulation to burn. Call us if you smell burning plastic or rubber and our technicians will investigate. We can quickly replace any broken wiring to fix the problem.
If your alternator isn’t working the way it should call us right away at Stevens Creek Subaru.
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