

Also, a broken bearing may create a knocking sound as it’s jostled around inside the housing. A broken belt could flap around the engine compartment and make a knocking noise as it comes in contact with other parts. Knocking NoiseĪ knocking noise can be caused by one of several things relating to the alternator. If you hear squeaking from it, then you’ll likely need to replace the noisy alternator bearing or alternator. Turn the alternator pulley by hand and listen for any squeaks as it spins. Make sure the engine is cool before you do this test. Still, another sign is whether the alternator pulley squeaks when you turn it by hand with the engine off. We already mentioned squeaking while the vehicle runs. Squeaking When You Turn Alternator Pulley and the Car Is Off This will be very high pitched and the frequency of the squeak should increase as the engine reaches higher RPMs. Though not as constant as the whining noise, a repetitive chirping or squeaking can be another sign of an alternator going bad. You’ll hear the grinding get louder as you rev the engine. If you’re hearing a loud grinding sort of noise coming from your engine compartment, it’s likely caused by the alternator. When the RMPs increase, such as when you accelerate, you’ll hear the noise get higher in pitch as the pulley spins faster. Alternator Whining NoiseĪ common sound made by failing alternators is a very high pitched whining noise that you’ll hear when the engine is running. But what sound does a bad alternator make? Depending on what part of the alternator is going bad first, you may experience any of the following noises.

But how will you know when it starts to go bad? What Does a Bad Alternator Sound Like?Ĭertain noises coming from the engine compartment can be a sign that your alternator is failing. When yours starts to fail, it could leave you in an unfortunate predicament. Since the entire electrical system revolves around the alternator and the vehicle relies on the electrical system to run, it’s safe to say that the alternator is crucial for the proper function of any automobile. The battery itself is primarily for starting the vehicle but the alternator takes over once it’s on. This electricity is used to power everything in your vehicle while it simultaneously charges the battery. While your engine is running, a belt spins the pulley on the alternator, allowing it to generate electricity. With so many electronics requiring power, how does a single battery keep everything running? Your vehicle is wired with sensors and electronics everywhere, from the gauges in your dash to sensors in your tires, and more sensors throughout your engine, the cabin, etc. You’ve probably heard of an alternator, but not everyone knows what function it performs. Replace the Alternator How Long Can You Drive With a Bad Alternator Bearing Alternator Bearing Replacement Cost Conclusion What is an Alternator?
#Rainstorm sounds coming close how to
What is an Alternator? What Does a Bad Alternator Sound Like? Alternator Whining Noise Grinding Noise Squeaking Squeaking When You Turn Alternator Pulley and the Car Is Off Knocking Noise Common Causes of Alternator Noise Worn Alternator Bearings Loose or Worn Alternator Belt Loose Alternator Bolt Signs of a Failing Alternator Warning Light Dim Headlights Flickering Headlights Dead Battery Alternator Making Noise Car Won’t Start Properly Stalling While Running Electrical Malfunctions Burning Smell How to Quiet a Noisy Alternator 1. If that doesn’t work, then we’ll briefly discuss how you can replace your alternator and save hundreds of dollars over going to a mechanic.įor more helpful information on diagnosing and fixing automotive noises coming from under the hood, please see our articles: Once you’ve diagnosed the alternator as the source of your noise, I’m going to provide several simple ways for you to fix it. Let’s first discuss how you can pinpoint the problem by identifying what noises a failing alternator makes, as well as other signs that yours may be at the end of its lifespan.


When my alternator started making a loud whining noise, I knew a solution was needed quickly, before it snowballed into a much larger problem for me to deal with.īefore you can figure out how to fix alternator noise, you’re going to need to properly diagnose the issue. Since the entire system relies on the alternator, it’s a common culprit of electrical failures. With so many electronics built-into vehicles these days, an issue in your electrical system can quickly become much more than an inconvenience.
