Has your vehicle's alternator failed? Are you absolutely certain that it isn't your battery or starter? When it comes to auto parts, they are "innocent until proven guilty", which means you have to prove convincingly enough that a certain part is indeed in need of replacement before replacing it. Let's take a look at some steps you can take to determine that your alternator, in fact, has bit the dust.
The first step would be to see if your alternator is properly charging, something which can be accomplished easily if you have an alternator testing machine. But probably you don't - this is a costly piece of machinery which precious few vehicle owners have in their possession. However, we have a few steps you can take to find out whether your alternator is charging, because in all likelihood you may not have a testing machine:
You likely have a volt meter, which you would want to connect to the battery.
Start your vehicle.
Observe the voltage output on the volt meter so that you can make an accurate determination.
If upon starting the car you notice an increase in voltage, then there's a good chance that your alternator is in the pink of health. Something else, probably your battery, may be the problem here, so your next step would be to inspect the battery before coming up with a conclusive analysis of the problem.
But if you do not notice the voltage increasing, this means there is a good chance your alternator is kaput.
So if you have concluded that the alternator does indeed need replacement, would you replace it on your own or have somebody else handle it? Here are just a few of the essential considerations as you mull over who's that "someone" who will be doing the dirty job that has to be done.
If you decide to have a mechanic do the replacement, how much do you expect to be paying him for parts and labor? Is there a guarantee?
If you decide to embark on this project by yourself, do you have the equipment needed to accomplish this task? Do you have a repair manual of sorts? Are you willing to settle for a remanufactured unit, or can you afford a new alternator?
Your choices today are much greater than they were ten years ago, before internet shopping became a strong factor in reigning in high auto parts prices. In fact, there are wholesalers who operate online and sell auto parts direct to the buyer. The good thing about these wholesalers would be the savings in comparison to buying from a brick-and-mortar retailer, as well as the abundance of high quality parts made by reliable companies.
Doing the work yourself can save you time and money as well as give to you a sense of accomplishment. So what are you waiting for - dust off that repair manual of yours and proceed to replace the alternator of your vehicle with little to no difficulty!
The first step would be to see if your alternator is properly charging, something which can be accomplished easily if you have an alternator testing machine. But probably you don't - this is a costly piece of machinery which precious few vehicle owners have in their possession. However, we have a few steps you can take to find out whether your alternator is charging, because in all likelihood you may not have a testing machine:
You likely have a volt meter, which you would want to connect to the battery.
Start your vehicle.
Observe the voltage output on the volt meter so that you can make an accurate determination.
If upon starting the car you notice an increase in voltage, then there's a good chance that your alternator is in the pink of health. Something else, probably your battery, may be the problem here, so your next step would be to inspect the battery before coming up with a conclusive analysis of the problem.
But if you do not notice the voltage increasing, this means there is a good chance your alternator is kaput.
So if you have concluded that the alternator does indeed need replacement, would you replace it on your own or have somebody else handle it? Here are just a few of the essential considerations as you mull over who's that "someone" who will be doing the dirty job that has to be done.
If you decide to have a mechanic do the replacement, how much do you expect to be paying him for parts and labor? Is there a guarantee?
If you decide to embark on this project by yourself, do you have the equipment needed to accomplish this task? Do you have a repair manual of sorts? Are you willing to settle for a remanufactured unit, or can you afford a new alternator?
Your choices today are much greater than they were ten years ago, before internet shopping became a strong factor in reigning in high auto parts prices. In fact, there are wholesalers who operate online and sell auto parts direct to the buyer. The good thing about these wholesalers would be the savings in comparison to buying from a brick-and-mortar retailer, as well as the abundance of high quality parts made by reliable companies.
Doing the work yourself can save you time and money as well as give to you a sense of accomplishment. So what are you waiting for - dust off that repair manual of yours and proceed to replace the alternator of your vehicle with little to no difficulty!
About the Author:
When you're looking for motor mechanics Apex NC, try Vital Automotive. We offer the best in automotive repair and diagnostics. Our rates are competitive, with no hidden fees.
