How long does it take to replace an Alternator?
Alternator Replacement and Diagnosis
First of all, please let us describe what an alternator is. The alternator is a vital part of a vehicle's electric system. The battery starts the car, but it's the alternator that keeps it running. When the engine is running, the alternator supplies extra power to the electrical system and charges the battery.
Secondly, you may be wondering what causes an alternator to go bad? Alternators can fail for different reasons. Several factors can affect how long an alternator lasts, including the quality of the part, conditions in which the car is driven and how many electronics are being used inside the car.
How do you know if the alternator is the problem? When the alternator goes bad, the electronics try to draw all of their power off the battery, which can cause the battery to die as well. But, if the alternator is replaced right away, the charge can be restored to the battery. So, if the dash battery light comes on and the headlights are dimming, get a charging system test to make sure whether the problem is the alternator or the battery.
Failing alternators, starters and batteries share many similar symptoms. Signs of a bad alternator include:
• Electrical burning smell coming from the alternator or the battery
• Flickering headlights, dash lights or instrument panel gauges that are excessively dim and behave strangely
• Alternator light or other dashboard warning lights coming on
• Car radio or other auto electrical components to work intermittently, or cause a squealing noise in the engine.
• Fluid leaks in the alternator or a tight belt can also cause damage to the alternator bearings, causing premature wearing.
So how long does it take to replace an alternator? This is a common question with an easy answer. The make and model of your vehicle will determine the exact time it takes to replace the alternator, but usually, one to two hours is sufficient. Other factors that can affect the time needed to replace the alternator include the accessibility of the alternator fora particular vehicle and back ordered or special order parts.
Wondering how long does it take to replace an alternator? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today for more information about alternators, starters, and batteries, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
Alternator Replacement and Diagnosis
First of all, please let us describe what an alternator is. The alternator is a vital part of a vehicle's electric system. The battery starts the car, but it's the alternator that keeps it running. When the engine is running, the alternator supplies extra power to the electrical system and charges the battery.
Secondly, you may be wondering what causes an alternator to go bad? Alternators can fail for different reasons. Several factors can affect how long an alternator lasts, including the quality of the part, conditions in which the car is driven and how many electronics are being used inside the car.
How do you know if the alternator is the problem? When the alternator goes bad, the electronics try to draw all of their power off the battery, which can cause the battery to die as well. But, if the alternator is replaced right away, the charge can be restored to the battery. So, if the dash battery light comes on and the headlights are dimming, get a charging system test to make sure whether the problem is the alternator or the battery.
Failing alternators, starters and batteries share many similar symptoms. Signs of a bad alternator include:
• Electrical burning smell coming from the alternator or the battery
• Flickering headlights, dash lights or instrument panel gauges that are excessively dim and behave strangely
• Alternator light or other dashboard warning lights coming on
• Car radio or other auto electrical components to work intermittently, or cause a squealing noise in the engine.
• Fluid leaks in the alternator or a tight belt can also cause damage to the alternator bearings, causing premature wearing.
So how long does it take to replace an alternator? This is a common question with an easy answer. The make and model of your vehicle will determine the exact time it takes to replace the alternator, but usually, one to two hours is sufficient. Other factors that can affect the time needed to replace the alternator include the accessibility of the alternator fora particular vehicle and back ordered or special order parts.
Wondering how long does it take to replace an alternator? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today for more information about alternators, starters, and batteries, and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
