Diagnosing Alternator Problems
If you’re experiencing car troubles or performance issues you believe are related to the alternator, you can diagnose whether or not the alternator is to blame with a few inexpensive tools. You will need a volt meter and a test light. Hook up the meter to the battery terminals and make sure the battery itself has enough voltage. If the battery is good, connect the meter to the alternator and start the engine. If the meter is reading less than 13 volts, your alternator is not performing correctly and will need to be replaced.
Watch this video to see how you can diagnose alternator problems. You can also bring your car straight to Murray’s Auto Clinic in Silver Springs, MD, and let one of our ASE-certified auto mechanics diagnose and fix the problem fast. Visit our website to learn about our auto repair and maintenance services, including oil changes, transmission repair, brake repair, and radiator repair. Call us at 301-585-7557 if you have any questions.
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