Subaru alternator problems - Don't wait until it's too late!

Subaru alternator problems can cause dimming lights, starting issues, and strange noises. It’s essential to promptly diagnose and repair issues to avoid additional damage and maintain the smooth operation of your vehicle.

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1. Table of Contents:
2. How to Tell If Your Subaru’s Alternator Is Failing?
3. How to Determine Whether Your Subaru Needs an Alternator Repair?
4. Three Indications Your Subaru Requires an Alternator Repair
5. Which one of the alternator’s symptoms is the worst?
6. Related articles:
7. Which alternator issue is the most prevalent?
8. Do alternators suddenly fail?
9. How do I tell if it’s the alternator or battery?
10. Which method of testing an alternator is the simplest?
11. Can a faulty alternator cause a battery to lose charge when the vehicle is not in use?
12. How much time can a car operate on a damaged alternator?
13. Frequently Asked Questions:
14. Conclusion:

Ignoring the issue can lead to a dead battery and costly fixes. Getting a mechanic to check and replace parts like the voltage regulator or the whole alternator is crucial. Regular check-ups help catch problems early for better car performance.

If you’re looking to learn more about Subaru, let’s begin your information quest with Carsdetective.

How to Tell If Your Subaru’s Alternator Is Failing?

Detecting signs of alternator failure in your Subaru is crucial for maintaining its reliability and preventing unexpected breakdowns. Consider the following warning signs:

Dimming Lights:

If your headlights or interior lights appear dimmer than usual, or if your radio’s volume seems lower, it could indicate a failing alternator. The alternator is responsible for providing power to the electrical components of your vehicle, including lights and entertainment systems. Dimming lights suggest that the alternator may not be generating enough electricity to meet the demand.

Dead Battery:

A common symptom of alternator issues is a dead or constantly draining battery. If your Subaru struggles to start or if you notice that the battery warning light is illuminated on the dashboard, it’s worth considering the condition of the alternator.

While a dead battery could be caused by various factors, such as extreme temperatures or old age, a failing alternator may not be effectively charging the battery during driving.

Strange engine Noises:

Unusual noises coming from under the hood, such as whirring or buzzing sounds, could indicate alternator trouble. These noises may be caused by worn-out bearings or other internal components of the alternator. Ignoring such sounds can lead to more severe issues and potential breakdowns.

Electrical Malfunctions:

Pay attention to any unusual electrical malfunctions in your Subaru, such as flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, or the erratic behavior of electronic systems. These problems may stem from fluctuations in electrical voltage due to alternator failure.

If you notice multiple electrical issues occurring simultaneously, it’s advisable to have your alternator inspected by a professional mechanic.

How to Determine Whether Your Subaru Needs an Alternator Repair?

Your Subaru needs electricity for its various systems, and the alternator’s role is to generate this power. If the alternator malfunctions, your car will encounter issues. These signs indicate it’s time to seek alternator repair from your Subaru dealer.

Unusual Noises Under the Hood:

Strange sounds coming from your vehicle’s engine bay could signal trouble, demanding immediate attention. One common source of such noises is a worn alternator belt, which connects to the crankshaft and moves across pulleys, including one that powers the alternator.

Crafted from reinforced rubber, this belt experiences wear and tear over time due to friction against the pulleys, or if it encounters a jammed pulley. If you hear squealing or screeching, it’s likely the alternator belt, and our team can inspect and replace it if necessary.

Battery Failure:

Your vehicle’s battery typically lasts between three to five years before requiring replacement. However, aging or inadequate power supply from the alternator can lead to battery failure.

Since batteries merely store electricity and rely on the alternator for recharging during driving, a faulty or aged alternator may fail to provide adequate power, gradually weakening the battery until it fails.

Our diagnostic services include testing the battery and scrutinizing the alternator and electrical charging system to identify and repair any issues.

Burning Smell:

A burning plastic smell in your vehicle can indicate wiring issues. The alternator generates power, which is distributed to various systems through a network of wires and cables.

Over time, these wires may break, causing electricity to flow through a broken wire, heating up and melting the surrounding insulation. If you notice a burning odor, our technicians can investigate and promptly replace any damaged wiring to resolve the issue.

Three Indications Your Subaru Requires an Alternator Repair

Your Subaru relies on its alternator to power all its electrical systems. Here’s how to spot it if it’s failing:

Wiring Problems: If the wires carrying electricity from the alternator break or wear out, your car’s systems won’t work properly. We can check and replace any damaged wiring.
Old Age: After about eight years, alternators start to produce less power. This can cause issues like dim lights or a struggling battery. We can examine your alternator and, if necessary, install a replacement.
Electrical Issues: If your car’s electrical systems act up randomly, like a jammed sunroof or flickering lights, it could mean the alternator isn’t working right. We can swap out the old alternator for a new one to fix the problem.

Which one of the alternator’s symptoms is the worst?

Among the symptoms of alternator trouble, a dead battery is often considered the most critical. When the alternator fails to charge the battery while the engine is running sufficiently, the battery can become depleted, leading to difficulties starting the vehicle or powering its electrical systems.

A dead battery can leave you stranded, unable to start your car, or use essential functions like lights and wipers. Additionally, if the alternator continues to fail while driving, the vehicle may eventually lose power altogether, posing a safety risk, especially if it happens while you’re on the road.

Which alternator issue is the most prevalent?

The most prevalent alternator issue is typically bearing failure. Bearings within the alternator allow the rotor to spin smoothly inside the housing. Over time, these bearings can degrade due to exposure to heat, dirt, and general wear and tear.

When bearings fail, they can cause the alternator to malfunction or seize, leading to electrical system failures in the vehicle. Regular inspection and maintenance can help detect bearing problems early and prevent more significant alternator issues.

Do alternators suddenly fail?

Alternators can fail suddenly due to electrical overload or damage. However, they often show signs of trouble before failing. Watch for dimming lights, flickering dashboard indicators, or difficulty starting the engine, which could indicate alternator issues. Ignoring these signs may lead to an eventual breakdown.

Regular maintenance and prompt replacement of worn components can help prevent sudden alternator failure and ensure your vehicle’s electrical system stays reliable.

How do I tell if it’s the alternator or battery?

When your car doesn’t start, it could be due to issues with either the battery or the alternator. Here’s how to differentiate between the two:

Battery Issues:

Symptoms: If your car doesn’t start at all or struggles to start, especially in colder weather, it could indicate a weak or dead battery. Other signs include dimming headlights or interior lights when attempting to start the car.
Testing: You can test the battery using a multimeter or have it tested at an auto parts store. They can check its voltage and overall health.

Alternator Issues:

Symptoms: If your car starts but then dies shortly after, or if you notice flickering dashboard lights or dim headlights while driving, it could suggest an alternator problem. Another sign is a battery warning light on your dashboard.
Testing: The alternator can also be tested using a multimeter. Mechanics can also perform a load test to check its functionality under different conditions.

Diagnosing the Issue:

If your car doesn’t start, first try jump-starting it. If it starts with a jump but then dies shortly after, it’s likely the alternator.
If jump-starting doesn’t work, but the lights and electrical systems are still functioning, the issue could be with the battery.

Professional Help:

If you’re unsure or unable to diagnose the problem yourself, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic or an auto parts store for testing.
They can perform more comprehensive tests to determine whether it’s the battery, alternator, or another component causing the issue.

Which method of testing an alternator is the simplest?

The easiest way to test an alternator is by using a multimeter to measure the voltage output while the engine is running. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

Prepare the multimeter: Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage in the appropriate range, typically 20 volts or higher.
Start the Engine: Allow the engine to idle after starting it.
Connect the Multimeter: With the engine running, connect the multimeter’s positive (+) probe to the positive terminal of the battery and the negative (-) probe to the negative terminal.
Read Voltage: The multimeter should display a voltage reading between 13.7 and 14.7 volts if the alternator is functioning correctly. This range shows that the battery is being charged by the alternator.
Rev the Engine (Optional): If you want to ensure the alternator is capable of producing sufficient power under load, you can rev the engine slightly while observing the multimeter. The voltage reading should remain within the acceptable range even with increased engine speed.
Inspect Connections: While testing also inspects the alternator connections and wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness. Poor connections can affect the alternator’s performance.

Can a faulty alternator cause a battery to lose charge when the vehicle is not in use?

Yes, a bad alternator can drain a battery when the car is off. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running, replenishing the energy used to start the engine, and powering electrical components.

If the alternator is faulty or not functioning properly, it may fail to recharge the battery adequately. As a result, the battery can gradually lose its charge over time, even when the car is not in use.

This can lead to a dead or weak battery, making it difficult to start the vehicle or operate electrical systems when needed. It’s essential to address alternator issues promptly to prevent unnecessary battery drain and ensure the reliable operation of the vehicle’s electrical system.

How much time can a car operate on a damaged alternator?

With a bad alternator, a car can typically run for about 15 minutes to an hour. It relies on the battery’s remaining charge to power essential systems like ignition and lights. Once the battery drains completely, the car will stall and stop running. It’s not safe to keep driving with a bad alternator, so it’s best to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid getting stranded.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does a Subaru alternator last?

The lifespan of a Subaru alternator can vary depending on usage and maintenance, but typically they last around 100,000 to 150,000 miles.

What is the price of replacing an alternator on a Subaru?

The cost of replacing a Subaru alternator can range from $300 to $800, depending on the model of the car and labor costs.

What causes Subaru alternator failure?

Common causes include wear and tear on internal components, bearing failure, electrical overload, and exposure to heat and dirt.

Can I replace my Subaru alternator myself?

While it’s possible to replace a Subaru alternator yourself if you have the necessary tools and expertise, it’s often recommended to have it done by a professional mechanic to ensure proper installation and functionality.

How can I prolong the lifespan of my Subaru alternator?

Regular maintenance, including keeping the alternator belt properly tensioned and ensuring the electrical system is in good condition, can help extend the lifespan of your Subaru alternator.

Can a Subaru alternator fail suddenly without warning?

While alternator failure can sometimes occur suddenly, more often than not, there are warning signs such as dimming lights or electrical system malfunctions leading up to the failure.

Conclusion:

At the end of the conclusion,

Addressing Subaru alternator problems promptly is crucial to preventing further damage and ensuring smooth vehicle operation. Ignoring signs of alternator failure can lead to dead batteries and costly repairs.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to maintaining the reliability of your Subaru’s electrical system and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.