Alternator Service Near Fontana, CA
Alternator Service at Mark Christopher Cadillac
If you’ve ever turned on a vehicle and it doesn’t start, you may have heard someone nearby say something along the lines of “It’s your battery,” “It’s your starter,” “It’s your alternator.” or something to that effect. The truth is, it’s hard to tell without a diagnostic. The battery, starter, and alternator all work together to allow your vehicle to start. The starter relies on the battery, the alternator relies on the starter and the battery relies on the alternator. All three parts must work together to get your car, truck, minivan, or SUV started.
Because these three things are interrelated, you may not know where the problem lies until you get the vehicle in for alternator service where they can check it out thoroughly by running a diagnostic. If you live in or around Fontana, Corona, or Pomona, bring your vehicle to Mark Christopher Cadillac. Let our expert technicians run a diagnostic to see why your car won’t start.
Have Your Alternator Serviced in Ontario, CA
Your alternator, named for alternating current, ensures that all your vehicle’s battery-operated components, like lights and accessories, get enough power to operate properly. It also charges the battery for the next trip. When you set up an alternator service, our technicians will run a diagnostic to determine why your vehicle is not starting. Then, they will provide you with an estimate of the cost. That way you can decide how to proceed, and they will provide quality service to get you back on the road if you are having problems with your alternator, battery, starter, or any other component of your startup systems.
Indications of a Faulty Alternator
If you are trying to figure out if your problem is related to alternator troubles, here are some things to look for:
- Dashboard warning lights: Check engine or battery light comes on.
- Dim or weak lights (especially noticeable at night): If your lights get brighter with higher RPMs, this is a good indicator that it may be an alternator problem.
- Other electrical malfunctions: Your alternator generates power for other electrical systems as well. When they stop working, it may mean your alternator is no longer able to power them.
- Odd noises: If there is a problem with an alternator belt or pulley, this can cause a squealing sound, and a problem with an alternator’s internal bearing might cause a growling or grinding sound.
- Burning smells: This could be a problem with a belt or pulley.
- Healthy battery that won’t accept or hold a charge: If your battery is “dead,” have it tested before replacing it. If there is a problem with the alternator, it may not be charging the battery properly during operation and the battery may be just fine.
If you suspect that you are having problems with your alternator, contact us at Mark Christopher Cadillac and schedule service with our service center or set up an appointment online. Let us help you with all your automotive needs.