We have heard so many people ask – “My car keeps burning out alternators, what can I do?”
When you encounter an issue with your alternator, it can be quite a concerning ordeal. After all, the last thing you want is to deal with such a problem that may be originating from interior components.
Moreover, certain functionalities linked with these components can be causing the problem, which is why you need to have this problem addressed sooner rather than later.
So, what can you do about it then?
In the case of an alternator that keeps burning out, there are a few common reasons behind this dilemma. Let us tackle each one of them, so you know exactly how to address this concern the right way.
My Car Keeps Burning Out Alternators: How To Fix It
There are a few reasons why your car keeps burning out the alternators.
For instance, it could be an oil spillage, incorrect mounting, or a faulty battery problem.
Moreover, an overload caused by additional components can contribute to this problem, as well.
Let us discuss each potential reason and what you can do about it.
1. Overload Due to Excessive Components
If there is too much load placed on your alternator, then it can lead to burning out. There may be extra components added such as stereo and lights. Any added components that draw massive amps of power can weigh your alternator down and cause it to burn out. This is particularly true if you are operating these parts at a maximum level.
2. Oil Spillage
Next up, we have oil spillage as another issue. When your alternator has a tendency to burn out, then there may be oil spilling right out of the valve cover gasket within the alternator. This is why a quick check you can do is to inspect if there is oil on your alternator when detached. If so, then there’s your culprit.
3. Battery Issues
If the alternator is overheating, then it could be that the battery is being charged. When you have a battery voltage that goes over 13 volts, this means that your alternator is highly likely to have burned out.
4. Poor Mounting
And lastly, a poorly-mounted alternator can cause it to burn out. This is why you need to make sure that the alternator is mounted snugly and tightly in the right place. Otherwise, grounding issues may arise, in addition to a host of electrical problems.
Other Factors You Should Know
When your alternator is over 5 years old, and electrical problems come as often as they should, then you may have a defective or worn out alternator. This is why it is best to have it replaced completely.
The computer system may also be having some problems. This component manages electrical components of your car when there is a glitch. Thus, it impacts the alternator directly. Hence, even if you have a properly-working alternator, it may continue to fail while being charged.
In the case of a faulty fuse, your alternator can most definitely burn out. It occurs when there is a sudden gush of exterior power towards your alternator. As a result, the car battery will fail to charge properly. So, it is a must to inspect the fuse of your alternator to make sure it is not blown.
Furthermore, any wiring issue can cause alternator problems. When there are damages to the wires hooked up to the alternator, it will be unable to perform its job well. The battery will not charge, which is why it is helpful to get this problem fixed right away.
Preventing Alternator Problems
Now that you know why your alternator is having issues, let us talk about solutions. First, you need to check if it is even working as it should.
You should inspect the spark plugs, splash shield, spark plugs, refrigerants, and oil. Check these parts periodically and ensure regular car maintenance to prevent your alternators from burning out.
It is possible for the spark plugs to be the cause of the problem when you have a malfunctioning spark plug. This is because the spark plugs are unable to generate ample power that will ignite the car. If there is an issue with starting your vehicle without any evident reason, then you might want to check the spark plugs.
Having low levels of refrigerants and oil can lead to alternators burning out. When the alternator gets worn out, then damages to many components of your vehicle may arise soon.
And then we have the splash shield. Install the splash shield correctly to prevent buildups of certain components on pollutants and liquids. This can avid debris and pollutants in the alternator to keep it in good condition longer.
Read More: What Happens If My Power Valve Is Too Big? Know The Right Power Valve Size You Need!
Alternators LifeSpan And Maintenance
For the most part, alternators can last for as long as 8 years. You can also have these replaced when you have gotten a total mileage of 80,000 up to 150,000 miles. When you have a car that you are using regularly, you can count on the alternator to last longer.
When you hear a whining or grinding sound by your car engine, it could mean that the alternator is going bad. Moreover, blinking headlights can mean the alternator is faulty. But it is a matter of determining if the issue is due to a bad alternator or a defective battery.
Bottom Line
We hope your question, “My car keeps burning out” has been addressed well in this post. Now, you can go ahead and get the problem fixed or have an expert resolve your concerns sooner rather than later.